Euthyrox
Generic Name
Levothyroxine Sodium
Manufacturer
Merck KGaA
Country
Germany (origin of Euthyrox brand)
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| euthyrox 100 mcg tablet | ৳ 5.24 | ৳ 131.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Euthyrox 100 mcg Tablet contains Levothyroxine Sodium, a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) and certain types of thyroid cancer.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose typically 25-50 mcg daily, gradually increased by 12.5-25 mcg every 4-6 weeks based on TSH levels. Maintenance dose usually 100-200 mcg daily.
Elderly
Lower initial doses, typically 12.5-25 mcg daily, with slower titration due to increased sensitivity to thyroid hormones and potential for cardiac effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment is usually required for renal impairment, but clinical monitoring is advisable.
How to Take
Euthyrox tablets should be taken orally once daily, preferably on an empty stomach 30-60 minutes before breakfast. It should be taken with water.
Mechanism of Action
Levothyroxine acts as a replacement for natural thyroid hormones (T4), which are essential for regulating the body's metabolism, growth, and development. It binds to thyroid hormone receptors in the cell nucleus, initiating gene transcription and protein synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
The therapeutic effects are gradual, usually becoming apparent after several weeks of consistent therapy. Full effects may take 4-6 weeks to stabilize.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in the urine and feces. A small amount is excreted unchanged.
Half life
Approximately 6-7 days in euthyroid individuals. The half-life is shorter in hyperthyroidism and longer in hypothyroidism.
Absorption
Approximately 40-80% absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the small intestine. Absorption is influenced by food, gastric acidity, and other medications. Peak serum concentrations occur 2-4 hours after oral administration.
Metabolism
Metabolized primarily in the liver and kidneys by deiodination, yielding active (T3) and inactive (rT3) metabolites, and by conjugation with glucuronides and sulfates.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Untreated subclinical or overt adrenal insufficiency
- •Untreated thyrotoxicosis
- •Acute myocardial infarction
- •Acute myocarditis
- •Acute pancarditis
- •Hypersensitivity to levothyroxine or any excipients
Drug Interactions
Amiodarone
Can affect thyroid function, both hyper- and hypothyroidism, and may alter levothyroxine requirements.
Sucralfate
May decrease the absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by 4 hours.
Beta-blockers
The metabolism of beta-blockers may be affected in patients with altered thyroid status.
Iron supplements
May decrease the absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by 4 hours.
Androgens/anabolic steroids
May decrease TBG levels, potentially requiring a decreased dose of levothyroxine.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
May reduce gastric acidity, potentially decreasing levothyroxine absorption. Monitor TSH levels.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
Levothyroxine may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. Closer monitoring of INR and anticoagulant dose adjustment may be necessary.
Antacids (aluminum, magnesium, calcium carbonates)
May decrease the absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by 4 hours.
Bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol)
May decrease the absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by 4-6 hours.
Estrogens (oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy)
May increase thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) levels, requiring an increased dose of levothyroxine.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute or chronic overdosage mimic hyperthyroidism: palpitations, arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation), chest pain, increased heart rate, tremors, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, weight loss, increased appetite, diarrhea, heat intolerance, sweating, fever, and menstrual irregularities. Management involves reducing the dose or temporarily discontinuing the drug, and symptomatic treatment (e.g., beta-blockers for cardiac symptoms).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Levothyroxine is considered safe and essential for pregnant women with hypothyroidism (FDA Pregnancy Category A). Thyroid hormone requirements often increase during pregnancy; TSH levels should be monitored and dosage adjusted accordingly. It is compatible with breastfeeding as only minimal amounts are excreted in breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
More Medicines
Explore other medicines you might be interested in