Levothyroxine

Levothyroxine is a prescription drug that is licensed for the treatment of hypothyroidism and other thyroid problems. It works by increasing certain thyroid hormones in the body. Although most people tolerate levothyroxine well, side effects can occur and may include things such as hair loss, insomnia, and heart palpitations. Levothyroxine comes in the form of a tablet that is taken once a day, typically in the morning.

 

What Is Levothyroxine?

Levothyroxine sodium is a prescription thyroid medication. It is actually a synthetic version of a naturally occurring thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine is approved to treat an underactive thyroid (known medically as hypothyroidism). It is also approved for the treatment of a variety of other thyroid problems (including certain types of thyroid cancer).
 
(Click What Is Levothyroxine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Side Effects of Levothyroxine

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with levothyroxine. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Some of the possible side effects of levothyroxine include, but are not limited to:
 
(Click Levothyroxine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
(Levothyroxine Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;