Side Effects of Synthroid

Synthroid is a medication used to treat people who have an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). It contains levothyroxine,  a man-made form of a thyroid hormone called thyroxine. Synthroid is used to treat people who have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). It is also used to treat or prevent goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), which can be caused by hormone imbalances, radiation treatment, thyroid cancer, or surgery.

Mild side effects of Synthroid (adverse effects)

There are many mild side effects that can occur during Synthroid therapy. This list does not include all possible reactions, so for more information on what may happen to you during treatment with this drug go straight to your doctor’s prescribing information! The most common mild side effects that have been reported with Synthroid are:

1. Weightloss:

   Synthroid is a common prescription medication used to improve thyroid function, and one of its potential side effects is weight loss. If you’re considering starting Synthroid, or have already begun taking it, and are hoping to lose weight, there are a few things you should know. First, weight loss is not a guaranteed side effect of Synthroid; while some people may experience it, others may not. Second, weight loss from Synthroid is usually mild, and gradual; don’t expect to drop pounds quickly or radically. Finally, in order to lose weight while taking Synthroid, you’ll likely need to make some lifestyle changes as well, such as eating a healthier diet and getting more exercise. If you’re underactive thyroid is causing you to struggle with your weight, talk to your doctor about Synthroid. It may help you lose a few pounds, but it’s not a miracle drug, and it won’t work unless you’re also willing to make some changes to your lifestyle

   

2. Hair loss:

   Hair loss is a common side effect of Synthroid, and it can be worrisome. If you’re experiencing hair loss, you must talk to your doctor to see if your medication is the cause.
   There are a few things you can do to help lessen the hair loss from Synthroid. First, make sure you’re taking the medication as your doctor prescribes. If you miss a dose, your hair loss may worsen. Second, use mild shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy. And lastly, try to avoid any stressful situations, as stress can also contribute to hair loss.

3. Skin rash:

   One of the mild side effects of Synthroid is a skin rash that is not an allergic reactions to the medication. This can happen when you first start taking the medication or if your dose is too high. If you develop a rash, it’s essential to contact your doctor so they can adjust your dose. In most cases, a rash is a minor issue and will go away on its own. However, in rare cases, a rash can be a sign of a more severe reaction. If you have any other symptoms along with your rashes, such as difficulty breathing or swelling, you should seek medical attention immediately.

4. Headache:If you’re experiencing headaches while taking Synthroid, it’s important to consult with your doctor to rule out any other potential causes. While headaches are a common side effect of Synthroid, they may also be caused by other factors, such as stress or dehydration. If your headaches are severe or persist, be sure to speak with your doctor. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help ease your headache discomfort: – Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Dehydration can often contribute to headaches. – Take a break from electronics and bright lights. Give your eyes and brain a rest by taking some time away from screens. – Try a relaxation technique, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. – Apply a cold pack or heating pad to your neck or forehead. – Massage your temples or neck muscles. If you are experiencing headaches while taking Synthroid, talk to your doctor. They can help determine if the cause is the medication or something else. In the meantime, try these tips to ease your discomfort.

5. Digestive Problems, such as Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea

   If you’re taking Synthroid, you may experience some digestive problems like nausea. It’s important to keep track of any side effects you experience while taking this medication and to talk to your doctor if they become severe. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help ease your digestive symptoms. Try eating smaller meals more frequently, and avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid caffeine and alcohol. If you experience constipation, try increasing your fiber intake and drinking plenty of fluids. If you experience diarrhea, try avoiding high-fat and high-fiber foods and drinking plenty of fluids. If your symptoms are severe or persist, talk to your doctor.

6. Intolerance to Heat

   As anyone with an underactive thyroid knows, one of the mild side effects of Synthroid is intolerance to heat. This can make summertime a real challenge, as the heat can make symptoms worse. But there are some things you can do to make it through the season. First, try to stay in air-conditioned areas as much as possible. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider spending time at the library, mall, or a friend’s house during the hottest hours of the day. Second, dress for the heat. Wear loose, lightweight clothing in natural fabrics like cotton. Avoid dark colors, which absorb heat, and opt for light colors, which reflect it. Third, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Fourth, take your thyroid medication as prescribed. This will help to ensure that your thyroid hormone levels are where they should be. Finally, if you start to feel overheated, get out of the heat and into a cool, shady spot. Take a break and relax. If you start to feel dizzy or faint, seek medical attention immediately. With a little preparation and care, you can make it through the summer despite your intolerance to heat.

    

7. Fever

   Synthroid is a medication used to treat an underactive thyroid gland. It can help to regulate the body’s metabolism and hormones. However, like all medications, it can have side effects. One of these side effects is fever. Fever is a common side effect of Synthroid. It can occur in both adults and children. Fever can be a symptom of many different conditions, so it is important to see a doctor if you or your child has a fever. Fever is defined as a body temperature that is above the normal range. The normal body temperature is 37°C (98.6°F). A fever is usually considered to be a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. Fever is often associated with other symptoms, such as chills, sweats, headache, muscle aches, and loss of appetite. In most cases, these symptoms are mild and go away on their own. However, in some cases, fever can be a sign of a more serious condition. If you or your child has a fever, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any serious causes. In most cases, a fever is nothing to worry about and will go away on its own. However, if the fever is accompanied by other symptoms, or if it lasts for more than a few days, it is important to see a doctor.

8. Sweating Excessively

   If you have an overactive thyroid, you may experience a range of symptoms, one of which is excessive sweating. This can be extremely uncomfortable, and can make it difficult to regulate your body temperature. There are a few things you can do to help manage this symptom, and we’ll explore them in this blog post. First, it’s important to understand what’s happening when you sweat excessively. When your thyroid is overactive, it produces more of the hormone thyroxine. This hormone speeds up your metabolism, which can cause your body to overheat. As your body temperature rises, you sweat in an attempt to cool down. There are a few things you can do to help manage this symptom. First, try to stay cool. Wear light, breathable clothing, and avoid being in hot environments. If you can, take a cool shower or bath to help lower your body temperature. Second, stay hydrated. When you sweat, you lose water and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids, and consider adding a sports drink to your diet to replace the electrolytes you’re losing. Finally, talk to your doctor. If you’re struggling to manage your excessive sweating, your doctor may be able to prescribe medication to help. They may also be able to refer you to a sweat clinic, where you can receive treatment to help reduce your sweating. If you have an overactive thyroid, sweating excessively can be a frustrating symptom. But there are a few things you can do to help manage it. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and talk to your doctor if you’re struggling.

    

9. Muscle weakness

   While Synthroid is generally well-tolerated, there are a few potential side effects of the medication. One potential side effect is muscle weakness. While this side effect is not common, it can occur in some people taking Synthroid. Muscle weakness can range from mild to severe, and in some cases can lead to myopathy (muscle wasting). If you experience it while taking Synthroid, it is important to contact your doctor. He or she will be able to determine if the muscle weakness is due to the medication or another underlying condition. In most cases, it is temporary and will resolve once the dosage of Synthroid is adjusted. However, in some rare cases, it can be a more serious condition that requires additional medical treatment.

    

10. Muscle Spasms

    If you’re taking Synthroid, muscle spasms are a potential side effect. While they may not be severe, they can be bothersome and even painful. If you experience muscle spasms, be sure to talk to your doctor. He or she can determine if the spasms are due to your medication and, if so, make necessary adjustments. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to ease the discomfort. For starters, try to stay as warm as possible. Muscle spasms are often worse when your muscles are cold. So, take a warm bath or apply a heating pad to the affected area. You might also want to massage the muscle. This can help to relax it and ease the pain. If your muscle spasms are severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as weakness or paralysis, seek medical attention immediately.

     

11. Shortness of Breath

    If you’re taking Synthroid and notice shortness of breath as a side effect, you’re not alone. Many people who take the medication report this symptom, and it can be a bit worrisome. However, it’s important to remember that shortness of breath is usually not a serious side effect of Synthroid, and it usually goes away on its own after a short time. If you’re concerned about your shortness of breath, talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out if your symptom is serious and what you can do to ease your discomfort.

     

12. Anxiety or feeling irritable

    If you’re one of the millions of Americans who takes Synthroid, you may experience occasional side effects. One of the more common ones is anxiety or feeling irritable. While it’s not clear why this happens, it may be due to the body’s reaction to the hormone replacement. If you’re experiencing anxiety or irritability, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help ease your symptoms: – Get regular exercise. This can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. – Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Both can make anxiety worse. – Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can all help to calm the mind and body. – Talk to someone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talking to a friend or therapist can help you work through your feelings. If you’re experiencing anxiety or irritability as a side effect of Synthroid, talk to your doctor. They can help you find ways to manage your symptoms.

13. Irregular periods

    If you’re taking Synthroid, you may experience irregular periods as a mild side effect. This can be frustrating and even a bit worrisome, but it’s important to remember that it is a relatively common and harmless side effect. In most cases, irregular periods will eventually even out and become regular again. There are a few things you can do to help manage irregular periods while you’re taking Synthroid. First, be sure to take your medication at the same time each day. This will help to ensure that your hormone levels stay consistent. You may also want to track your periods so that you can better predict when they may occur. If you’re concerned about irregular periods, or if they are causing you significant distress, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can offer advice and guidance on how to best manage this side effect.

14. Difficulty sleeping

    If you’re taking Synthroid and find yourself having difficulty sleeping, you’re not alone. This is a common side effect of the medication, and can be frustrating to deal with. There are a few things you can do to try and ease the problem, though. First, make sure you’re taking your Synthroid at the same time each day. This can help to regulate your body’s natural rhythms and make it easier to fall asleep at night. You might also want to try avoid caffeine and other stimulants after lunchtime, as they can make it harder to wind down at night. Finally, if you’re still having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about other options. There may be a different medication that would be better suited for you.

     

15. Weight Gain

    If you’re taking Synthroid, you might be worried about gaining weight. After all, weight gain is a common side effect of this medication. However, there are a few things you can do to minimize your risk of gaining weight. First, make sure you’re taking your Synthroid as prescribed. This will help to ensure that your body is getting the right amount of the medication, which can help to avoid weight gain. Second, watch your diet. Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help to offset any weight gain that might occur from taking Synthroid. Finally, talk to your doctor. If you’re concerned about gaining weight, your doctor can help you to create a plan to avoid it.

     

     

Side effects (adverse effectsof taking too much Synthroid (overdose)

If your thyroid stimulating hormone levels are too low, you may experience an irregular heartbeat. If you are taking Synthroid, it is important to have your hormone levels checked regularly by your doctor to ensure that your dose is not too high. If you are taking Synthroid and your hormone levels get too low, it is important to talk to your doctor right away. They can help you to determine if your dose needs to be adjusted or if there is another underlying issue causing the problem.

1. Heat intolerance

   If you are taking Synthroid (or other drugs containing levothyroxine sodium), you may be at risk for intolerance to heat. This side effect can be serious, so it is important to be aware of it. Synthroid is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism, and it works by replacing the hormone that your body is not producing enough of. While this can be an effective treatment for many people, it can also cause some serious side effects. One of these is intolerance to heat. This means that you may feel uncomfortably hot when exposed to warm or hot temperatures. This can be dangerous, as it can lead to dehydration and heat stroke. If you experience this side effect, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid exposure to extreme heat. If you are unable to avoid exposure to heat, you should speak to your doctor about how to best manage this side effect.

    

2. Sweating Excessively

   If you’re one of the millions of Americans who takes Synthroid, an FDA-approved synthetic thyroid hormone, you may be all too familiar with one of its most common side effects: sweating. While this may not seem like a big deal at first, excessive sweating can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive, affecting your daily activities and social interactions. If you’re struggling with this side effect, there are a few things you can do to help manage it. First, try to keep cool. Wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid overheating yourself. If you’re sweating a lot during exercise, slow down or take a break. And if you notice that you’re sweating more when you’re under stress, try to find ways to relax and reduce your stress levels. Second, consider using an antiperspirant. This can help to reduce the amount of sweat you produce, and there are even some antiperspirants specifically designed for people who sweat excessively. Finally, talk to your doctor. If you’re struggling to manage your sweating with these self-care tips, your doctor may be able to prescribe a medication that can help. So don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you’re struggling.

    

3. Nervousness

   If you’re feeling nervous, it could be a side effect of taking Synthroid. This medication is used to treat an underactive thyroid, and one of the potential side effects is indeed nervousness. If you’re feeling anxious or on edge, it’s important to speak to your doctor to see if this is a reaction to the medication. In some cases, the dosage may need to be adjusted. But don’t stop taking your Synthroid without first speaking to your doctor, as this could cause serious health problems.

    

4. Anxiety

   Did you know that anxiety is also a potential side effect of this popular thyroid medication? While it’s not common, anxiety is a possible side effect of Synthroid. If you’re taking Synthroid and you start to feel anxious or stressed, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication. If you’re struggling with anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help yourself feel better. Exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can also be helpful. And, of course, talking to a therapist or counselor can be a great way to work through your anxiety. If you’re taking Synthroid and you’re feeling anxious, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your doctor and find a way to get the help you need.

    

5. Irritability

   One of the most common side effects of Synthroid is irritability. This can manifest itself in a number of ways, including feeling easily annoyed, short-tempered, or impatient. In some cases, irritability can also lead to anxiety or depression. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor. While irritability is a common side effect of Synthroid, it is not necessarily a harmful one. In most cases, it will subside within a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if it persists or becomes severe, it may be necessary to adjust your dosage or switch to a different medication. If you are taking Synthroid and experiencing irritability, there are a few things you can do to help mitigate the symptoms. First, try to avoid stressful situations. If you can, take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress. Exercise can also be helpful in reducing stress levels. Finally, make sure to get enough sleep. Getting enough rest will help your body to better cope with the effects of Synthroid. If you are still experiencing irritability after trying these self-care measures, speak to your doctor. They may recommend a different dosage or medication.

    

6. Trouble Sleeping

   If you’re taking Synthroid and having trouble sleeping, you’re not alone. Many people report difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep when taking this popular thyroid medication. While some insomnia is a common side effect of Synthroid, there are a few things you can do to help yourself get a good night’s sleep. First, avoid taking Synthroid late in the day. It’s best to take your medication in the morning, so that it has time to be absorbed into your system before you go to bed. If you must take it in the evening, be sure to give yourself at least a few hours before bedtime. Second, establish a regular sleep routine and stick to it as much as possible. Going to bed and getting up at the same time each day will help to regulate your body’s natural sleep rhythm. Finally, create a relaxing bedtime routine that will help you wind down and prepare for sleep. This might include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to calming music. If you’re still having trouble sleeping after trying these tips, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your Synthroid dosage or recommend a different medication.

7. Muscle spasms

    

   If you are taking Synthroid, a medication used to treat hypothyroidism, you may be at risk for developing muscle spasms as a side effect. This condition can be painful and may cause cramping in your muscles. In severe cases, muscle spasms may lead to muscle weakness and paralysis. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor immediately. While muscle spasms are a serious side effect of Synthroid, they are not common. Most people taking the medication do not experience this problem.

    

8. Muscle weakness

   One of the potential side effects of Synthroid is muscle weakness. This can occur because the medication can cause the body to produce less thyroid hormone, which can lead to muscles feeling weak and tired. In some cases, muscle weakness can be severe and can lead to difficulty walking or even paralysis. If you experience any muscle weakness while taking Synthroid, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.

    

9. Chest pain

   If you experience chest pain while taking Synthroid, it is important to seek medical attention right away. While chest pain is not a common side effect of Synthroid, it can be a sign of a more serious problem. When you take Synthroid, the medication works to replace a hormone that your body is not producing enough of. In some cases, this can cause an imbalance in the levels of other hormones in your body. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including chest pain. If you experience chest pain while taking Synthroid, it is important to seek medical attention right away. While chest pain is not a common side effect of Synthroid, it can be a sign of a more serious problem.

What are the long-term side effects of taking Synthroid?

 

Osteoporosis

When bones thin out and lose mass, they become weaker and more likely to fracture or break. Over time, a condition called osteoporosis can develop. Osteoporosis isn’t necessarily an inevitable part of aging: a healthy diet and weight-bearing exercises through life can help keep your skeletal bones healthy.

High levels of levothyroxine can speed up bone loss, essentially replicating what would happen if you were hyperthyroid. As you age, your thyroid requirements change, so a dose right for you in your 40s may be too high when you reach your 60s. Lifelong monitoring is needed to keep your thyroid hormone levels balanced.

Researchers are still looking into whether people who are getting levothyroxine overtreatment lose bone mass more quickly, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a serious condition that can lead to debilitating fractures and breaks. If you think you may be at risk for osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to protect your bone health.

A recent study looked at the relationship between levothyroxine use and the risk of bone fractures in women over 65. The study found that women who were already at an increased risk for osteoporosis were more likely to experience bone fractures if they took higher doses of levothyroxine.

This is just one study, and it’s important to note that the risk of fractures was only increased in women who were taking high doses of levothyroxine.

If you are taking the correct dose of levothyroxine for your body, you are less likely to experience osteoporosis. Still, if you are taking levothyroxine or are considering starting treatment, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks.

One way to decrease the likelihood of developing osteoporosis is to have regular TSH blood tests. This helps you keep your levothyroxine dose in line with your thyroid hormone requirement.

Another option is to get regular bone mineral density tests to check for any changes to bone density over time.

This is particularly important for women over age 50, since menopause also leads to a loss of progesterone, which is protective of bones. If you are concerned about the risk of osteoporosis, talk to your healthcare provider.

They can help you determine if you are at risk and what steps you can take to reduce that risk.

Heart disease

The thyroid is a gland that produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. These hormones are important for many bodily functions, including heart function.

That’s why it’s important to maintain a healthy thyroid hormone balance. If you take thyroid replacement medication, like Synthroid, it’s important to carefully monitor your hormone levels.

If your levels get too high, it can lead to heart problems over time, including a racing heartbeat, chest pain, heart attack, or heart failure.

On the other hand, if your Synthroid dose is too low, it can increase your risk of high cholesterol and heart disease, potentially leading to heart attacks and strokes. So it’s important to talk to your doctor about your individualized Synthroid dose and to have your hormone levels checked regularly.

Synthroid contraindications and warnings

There are also a number of contraindications to be aware of before starting treatment with Synthroid. First, this medication should not be used if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication (allergic reactions). Second, Synthroid should not be used to treat benign thyroid nodules.

Synthroid is intended to treat thyroid disease but not to induce weightloss.

Finally, if you are taking any other medication, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting treatment with Synthroid.

Synthroid Drug Interactions

Some drugs can affect your blood levels of thyroid hormones. This may cause you to have too much or too little of this hormone. If these drugs are used together, your doctor may need to change the dose of thyroid hormone replacement. Many drugs can interact with levothyroxine. Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• amphetamines
• anti-thyroid drugs
• carbimazole
• methimazole
• birth control pills
• other hormones
• blood thinners: warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven;
• diabetes medications
• heart medications – digoxin, digitalis, Lanoxin
• insulin or oral diabetes medications
• medicines to treat Alzheimer’s disease or dementia
• medicines to treat anxiety or depression; phenobarbital; rifampin;
• seizure medications.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect levothyroxine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Before starting Synthroid, it is important to be aware of the drug interactions and contraindications. As with any medication, it is always best to consult with your doctor before starting treatment. If you are having trouble finding a medication that works for you, check out VitaliThy, the Natural Desiccated Thyroid. This product has few side effects and is probably a better option for you.