Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland and are macromolecules that travel through our blood to reach every cell in the body. They have essential functions within our body, mainly because they participate in our body’s metabolic and functional processes. In addition to this, they intervene in the energy and regulation of a person’s temperature. There are conditions in which the function of the thyroid gland is affected and, therefore, its production of hormones as occurs in hypothyroidism. This, like other alterations in the production of this hormone, will require treatment since its absence can generate disorders in metabolic processes. One of the drugs used is Levothyroxine, but what is it, and what is it for? The following article from FastlyHeal discusses what levothyroxine sodium is for and its side effects.
Table of Contents
What is Levothyroxine sodium for
Levothyroxine sodium is a hormone used to treat a condition called hypothyroidism, characterized in that the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone. It is also used to treat other problems, such as congenital hypothyroidism and goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland. Its consumption is also indicated when there is a total or partial removal of the thyroid gland.
The doctor prescribes this hormone when there is a deficiency because it is responsible for replacing the one present in the body. It has also been used to treat thyroid cancer and other procedures like surgery and radioactive iodine therapy. It is indicated that the body will not function correctly without thyroid hormone.
Sodium levothyroxine acts in the metabolic process, essential in growth and development. That is why its absence can cause a poor chance in the person, fatigue, tiredness, constipation, their way of speaking can be slow, increased weight loss, irregular menstrual periods, hair loss, dehydrated skin, increased sensitivity to cold, and depression.
Considerations when taking levothyroxine sodium
The presentation of this medicine is in capsules and must be administered orally. It is recommended to consume this drug on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before having breakfast, because it provides a better effect. If you forget to take a dose and the next one is coming up, take the next one. You should not crush or split the capsule, take it whole with a good glass of water because the tablet can get trapped in the throat. It is used for any age under the doctor’s prescription in charge of supervising the condition.
You have probably heard that some people take this hormone to lose weight because it causes weight loss. However, it should not be used for these purposes since its effect turns out to be ineffective in patients with normal hormonal function and can generate severe toxicity that can be fatal.
This drug can generate interactions with other medications, so you should consult your doctor, who will dictate the protocol to follow if you are taking additional drugs. In the same way, you should tell him if you smoke or consume alcohol.
If you have diabetes, this drug can affect your blood sugar level, so you should continuously regulate and keep your sugar level stable as instructed to prevent your health from being affected.
The studies carried out to date by experts have not shown that levothyroxine should not be used in children or adults, and in the case of pregnant women, the risk that it can produce in the baby is minimal. However, it should never be used without the recommendation or supervision of a physician.
Levothyroxine sodium: side effects
Levothyroxine sodium may have side effects in some people. They are divided into those who require medical care and those who do not need it.
In case you present any of the effects that will be mentioned below, you should consult a doctor as quickly as possible:
- Allergic reactions such as itching, skin rash, and swelling of some areas such as the face, lips, or tongue.
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Irritability.
- Increased sweating.
- Nervousness.
- Heat intolerance
- Swelling of the ankles, feet, or legs.
- Tremors
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea.
- Stomach cramps
- Fever.
The side effects that this hormone can cause and that do not require medical attention are the following:
- Changes in appetite
- Menstrual changes, that is, irregular menstruation.
- Hair loss.
- Headache.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Weightloss.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Levothyroxine sodium: what it is for and side effects, we recommend that you enter our medication and medical tests category.

I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.