Behind the neck, is a butterfly-shaped gland which is known as Thyroid gland. This gland secretes the hormone thyroxine. Hormones produced by the thyroid are “just like gasoline in a car” to keep the body running smoothly. Similarly, it is necessary to maintain the functions of our body such as metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland that produces low levels of hormones. People with hypothyroidism may need to use the hormone Levothyroxine.
Thyroid Information / General Rules:
- For most people, the hormone thyroxine (Levothyroxine) is a lifelong drug.
- Even if the laboratory report of thyroid hormone is normal, the amount of thyroxine taken should not be stopped or reduced without consulting a doctor.
- Let the specialist know if you have started or changed to other medicines
If you are pregnant:
- The thyroxine hormone (Levothyroxine) is a safe medicine for both the pregnant mother, unborn child as well as midwife and the baby which should not be stopped at any case.
- As soon as pregnancy is confirmed, add 2 tablets a week to the regular dose of thyroxine hormone (Levothyroxine).
- Contact your treating physician (hormone specialist) as soon as you find out you are pregnant.
Hypothyroidism Diet: Can Eating Cause Hypothyroidism Problems?
- There is usually no special diet for hypothyroidism.
- There is currently no conclusive evidence that eating or neglecting certain foods can alter thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism. This means that eating does not change the function of the thyroid. However, iodine-rich diet is essential for normal thyroid function.
- Most thyroid patients can comfortably eat cabbage, cauliflower and soybean products. But nuts, soybeans, protein rich foods can be eaten only 1 hour after taking the drug levothyroxine and vitamins containing calcium, iron tablets and iron tablets, antacids used in gastric problems, sucralfate can be eaten only after 4 hours.
What is the best time to take thyroxine hormone (Levothyroxine) medicine?
- One hour before breakfast
What are the best Storage conditions for these medicines?
- Store thyroxine in a cool place (20-25oC) and in a dark place.
- Do not store thyroxine in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms with high humidity and high temperatures.
- Do not change the brand of thyroxine without consulting your doctor.
- Do not use the medicine if it is discolored or expired.
Follow ups:
- Have regular thyroid tests at intervals recommended by your hormone specialist.
- Take thyroxine only after blood transfusion on the day of thyroid test.
- Remember to take thyroxine when you are sick.
- Don’t forget to carry and take thyroxine with you while traveling.