Synthroid Dosage

Because there are varying degrees of hypothyroidism and other thyroid problems, the Synthroid dosage will vary from person to person. The recommended dose will be based on factors such as your age, other medical conditions you have, and the results of certain blood tests. Your Synthroid dose comes in tablet form and is typically taken once a day in the morning.

 

Synthroid Dosage: An Introduction

The dose of Synthroid® (levothyroxine sodium) that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • The results of certain thyroid blood tests
  • Any other medications you are taking.
     
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 

What Is the Recommended Synthroid Dosage?

Because people have varying degrees of hypothyroidism and other thyroid problems, Synthroid is not a "one-size-fits-all" medication. Instead, the dose must be individualized. It often takes several months to find the best dose, and your dose may need to be adjusted from time to time.
 
Some healthcare providers start at a low Synthroid dose and slowly work up to the best dose, while others start at a higher dose and adjust as necessary. You will need frequent blood tests to monitor your thyroid function, and the results of these tests will guide your healthcare provider to make any necessary dosing adjustments.
 
Elderly people and people with heart problems are usually started on lower doses, due to the risk of heart problems. A typical adult usually ends up taking Synthroid 100 mcg to 125 mcg per day, although many people may need more or less. It is rare to need a dose higher than Synthroid 200 mcg per day.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;