Dosing Information for Synthroid
Synthroid comes in 12 different strengths, or doses
Each dose comes in a different color. The pills are small and round. Every pill says "Synthroid" on one side. The number that is stamped on the other side is the dose. The dose is written as micrograms, or mcg. The wide range of strengths helps your doctor find the exact dose of thyroxine that is right for you.
Your starting dose of Synthroid depends on several factors
Your starting dose will be specific to you based on your age, weight, and other health conditions you may have. Older people usually start on a low dose because their bodies are more sensitive to medicine. People who weigh more usually start on a higher dose. Your doctor will also consider your current TSH level, any other health problems you may have, and other medicines you take.
Your doctor will need to carefully adjust your dose
Synthroid has a narrow therapeutic index. This means that the amount of levothyroxine must be managed very carefully to help ensure proper treatment. That is why there are so many different doses of Synthroid. This helps your doctor find the precise dose you need. Your dose of Synthroid may be different from the dose another person takes. This is because your dose is based on your individual needs. Because of this, do not share your pills with anyone else, and do not take anyone else's thyroid medicine. If your dose is changed by your doctor, be sure to ask your doctor what to do with your leftover pills. You should take your new dose of medicine to help ensure proper treatment.
Follow-up TSH testing helps the doctor know for sure if your thyroid hormone level is in balance
The goal of treatment is to keep your TSH level between 0.3 and 3.0 mIU/L. After each dosing change, it takes time for the medicine to affect your TSH level. Your doctor will check your TSH level about 6 to 10 weeks after your dose is changed. Your dose may need to be changed several times. Once the doctor finds the best dose for you, you will need to have a TSH test every 6 to 12 months to ensure that you are still getting the amount of levothyroxine your body needs.
Your doctor counts on you to be an active partner in your treatment
Getting follow-up blood tests to check your TSH level is one of the most important ways to stay involved in your care. It is also important to let your doctor know how you are feeling.
After starting Synthroid, your hypothyroid symptoms should improve within several weeks. Call your doctor if these symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you have any new ones. Tell your doctor about any changes in your health, such as being pregnant, breast-feeding, or starting menopause. These health conditions may affect the dose of Synthroid your body needs. Learn more about other changes in your body that may also affect your treatment.
Always take Synthroid exactly as your doctor prescribed to help keep your thyroid in balance and help improve your hypothyroid symptoms.