synthroid

There are no specific precautions required when handling this medication unless you are allergic to it. Wash your hands after handling any medication.

Thyroid Hormone

Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone used to treat animals that don’t make enough thyroid hormone. The FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration) has approved levothyroxine (Thyro-tabs®) for use in dogs for thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The FDA allows veterinarians to prescribe and use products containing this drug in different species or for other conditions in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

• Store this medication in the original prescription bottle or an approved dosage reminder (ie, pill minder) container at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Keep away from children and other animals, especially the chewable tablets.

• If your veterinarian or pharmacist has made (compounded) a special formulation for your animal, follow the storage recommendations and expiration date for the product.

• Your veterinarian will recommend regular blood checks to measure blood thyroid levels to monitor how well your animal’s dose is working. Talk with your veterinarian about the specific timing of the blood sampling related to when your animal takes the medication. Do not miss these important follow-up visits.

• Sometimes the effects of levothyroxine will change if you switch brands of tablets. If possible, use the same brand of tablet.

• Levothyroxine can change the results of laboratory tests. Tell your veterinarian that your animal is taking levothyroxine before any blood testing is performed.

• Use of this drug may not be allowed in certain animal competitions. Check rules and regulations before entering your animal in a competition while this medication is being administered.

Side effects are not common with levothyroxine. When side effects occur, it usually means the dose is too high.

Side effects that usually are not serious include:

• Faster or racing heartbeat, greater appetite with weight loss, thirst and need to urinate, excitability or nervousness, and panting (dogs). Cats may appear withdrawn and apathetic and refuse to eat.

• Some species of red-feathered birds may start growing yellow feathers after treatment with levothyroxine; this is not a matter for concern.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of these signs, as the drug dose likely needs to be adjusted.