Synthroid Overdose: An Introduction
Synthroid® (
levothyroxine sodium) is a manufactured version of a particular thyroid hormone. Taking too much Synthroid can result in hyperthyroidism, which can be quite dangerous. The specific effects of a Synthroid overdose will vary, depending on a number of factors, including the
Synthroid dosage and whether it was taken with any other medications or substances.
Symptoms of a Synthroid Overdose
The symptoms of a Synthroid overdose can be very dangerous. Some of the most dangerous symptoms include:
Synthroid is a "narrow therapeutic index" drug, which means that the safe and effective dose is usually very close to the toxic dose. Therefore, a Synthroid overdose can result from taking just a little too much Synthroid.
Treatment for a Synthroid Overdose
The treatment for a Synthroid overdose will also vary. If the overdose was recent, the healthcare provider may administer certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Treatment also involves supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV), if necessary
- Medications to control seizures, arrhythmias, or other symptoms
- Other treatments based on the complications that occur.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on Synthroid.
