Levoxyl Description

Levoxyl is a hormone replacement drug containing the chemical Levothyroxine taken by patients who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Levoxyl may be prescribed when your thyroid gland does not produce the necessary hormone to regulate the body’s energy and metabolism. Your thyroid is a ductless gland located in your neck that is responsible for regulating growth and development as well as your energy level and metabolism.

The active ingredient in Levoxyl is Levothyroxine, which is the chemical equivalent of the naturally occurring T4 hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Levoxyl is an oral medication and requires a prescription for purchase.

Conditions Treated by Levoxyl

Hypothyroidism is the most common of the thyroid disorders. It occurs when the thyroid gland becomes underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormones. The metabolic rate falls and normal bodily functions slow down.

The most common cause of adult hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It's caused by an autoimmune process where the body produces antibodies that attack and gradually destroy the thyroid gland. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include; fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, hair loss, dry skin, depression, mental slowness and memory problems.

If hypothyroidism is not treated, the symptoms will progress and a severe form of hypothyroidism known as myxedema may develop. Levoxyl will not cure hypothyroidism, but taking the medication can normalize thyroid hormone levels.

Levoxyl can also be prescribed to treat or prevent an enlarged thyroid gland, also called a goiter which may be caused by hormone imbalances, surgery, and cancer or radiation treatment. The most common type is called a colloid goiter. This is a result of your thyroid gland becoming larger in size in order to produce higher amounts of the thyroid hormone.

At one time, the most common cause of goiter was an iodine deficiency but in these times of a higher sodium intake, the frequency of hypothyroid from an inadequate iodine intake is no longer seen in as many areas worldwide. Although goiters are usually painless, a large goiter can cause a cough and make it difficult for you to swallow or breathe. The management of thyroid cancer may also involve treatment with Levoxyl.

Before You Take Levoxyl

Several medications may reduce the effectiveness of Levoxyl, including: Calcium Carbonate, Cholestyramine, Sucralfate, and antacids that are formulated with magnesium or aluminum. Let your doctor know if you have any other health issues, or if you become pregnant while taking this medication.

Warnings for Levoxyl

Levoxyl should not be taken to treat obesity or to aid in weight loss, or for the purpose of treating infertility. Taking Levoxyl for an extended period may reduce the mineral density of your bones.

Possible Side Effects of Levoxyl

• Changes in weight
• Nervousness
• Muscle weakness
• Stomach cramps
• Depression

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these more serious side effects: fast or irregular heart rate; sleep problems; fever, hot flashes, sweating.

Drugs Similar to Levoxyl

• Synthroid
• Tirosint