Hypothyroidism: Treatments
Too little thyroid hormone. Symptoms include weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and sensitivity to the cold. Also called underactive thyroid.
Part of: Hypothyroidism
About Hypothryoidism Treatments
A drug that is similar to the body’s own hormones can be used to replace thyroxine when levels are too low. This drug is usually referred to as Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine. It keeps hormone levels within the normal range, and symptoms usually clear up completely. Depending on the cause, treatment may be temporary or lifelong.
Thyroxine is taken as a tablet once a day. It is often recommended to take thyroxine in the morning at least a half an hour before breakfast so the body can absorb it better. It can also be taken in the evening before bedtime. That is easier for a lot of people because they do not eat much for a while before going to bed.
At the right dose side effects are virtually nonexistent. The dose is based mostly on body weight. Based on how symptoms and thyroid hormone levels develop, the dose can be adjusted after two to three months. It can take that long for the hormone levels in the body to stabilize. If these levels can be kept within the normal range over the long term, they may need to be checked just once a year… Read more about Hypothyroidism: Treatments