With over 20 million people taking Levothyroxine (the #3 most commonly prescribed drug), it’s important for dentists to be aware of the oral effects and Epinephrine cautions associated with the drug. Read on to learn more:
Generic Name: Levothyroxine Sodium
Brand Name(s): Euthyrox, Levo-T, Levoxyl, Synthroid, Tirosint, Unithroid, Thyquidity
Pronunciation: LEE voe thye ROX een
About this drug:
Levothyroxine is used to treat hypothyroidism and treat or prevent goiter.
Levothyroxine is not used to treat obesity or weight issues.
Dentistry-related tidbits:
Levothyroxine may cause xerostomia.
The anticonvulsant Carbamazepine in combination with Levothyroxine may decrease Levothyroxine levels and efficacy. Make sure to check for potential interactions before prescribing using a tool like Rx Check.
If a patient is taking high doses of Levothyroxine, Epinephrine in local anesthetics may cause cardiac issues. Speak with the patient's physician before giving Epinephrine in this case.
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to Levothyroxine’s side effects, especially atrial fibrillation.
Fun facts:
Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is designed to mimic the effects of the natural hormone produced by the thyroid gland.
Levothyroxine is the #3 most commonly used prescription medication in the U.S., totaling over 89 million prescriptions for 20 million patients in 2021.
Levothyroxine has an FDA Warning that states it is ineffective for weight reduction in normal thyroid patients. Large doses may cause serious or life-threatening side effects, especially when taken with sympathomimetics such as Epinephrine or Amphetamine.
Calcium supplements, Iron supplements, and antacids can interfere with the absorption of Levothyroxine.
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