Levothyroxine: How Should I Take Levothyroxine
Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.
How should I take levothyroxine?
Take levothyroxine exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication than recommended. Do not take levothyroxine for longer than your doctor has prescribed.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.
 | It is very important to take levothyroxine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. The levothyroxine tablet can dissolve very quickly and swell in the throat, possibly causing choking or gagging. |
 | Take this medicine on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before eating. Levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions and try to take this medication at the same time each day. |
It may take several weeks before your body starts to respond to this medication. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly. Even if you feel well, you may still need to take this medicine every day for the rest of your life to replace the thyroid hormone your body cannot produce.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using levothyroxine.
 | Store levothyroxine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. |
| Last updated: | September 12, 2008 |
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© 2007, Cerner Multum, INC. Version: 5.02.
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