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What are the side effects of Synthroid?
There are several potential side effects of Synthroid for the treatment of hypothyroidism, also known as low thyroid hormone levels. Most of these symptoms are mild, although there are some serious reactions to the drug. The most serious side effects of Synthroid® are symptoms of an allergic reaction to the drug.
One of the most common side effects of Synthroid is temporary hair loss. This is most common in children who take the drug. The loss usually happens only during the first month of treatment.
Some of the other milder side effects of Synthroid include nausea, stomach cramps, weight loss, or increased appetite. Patients may also experience heat sensitivity, excessive sweating, or fever. Other symptoms include mental changes such as irritability or nervousness.
There are some patients who may experience:
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- headache
- or tremors
as side effects of Synthroid treatment.
Insomnia and changes in your menstrual cycle are also possible. Mild side effects from taking the drug can be discussed with your doctor, but usually only if they become more serious or do not go away on their own.
Severe side effects that occur while taking Synthroid should be discussed immediately with your doctor. They include chest pain, also known as angina, and irregular or unusually fast heartbeat. Any signs of an allergic reaction as a result of taking the drug should receive immediate medical attention. These include swelling of the throat, lips, face, or tongue and any breathing problems.
There are some conditions that may make taking Synthroid too risky or at least require careful patient monitoring or taking an adjusted dose during treatment. The drug is not safe for patients who have or have had adrenal problems, a heart attack, or thyrotoxicosis, which is another thyroid disorder. Patients with heart or coronary artery disease, diabetes, anemia, or pituitary problems should also talk to their doctor.
Synthroid is a brand name for the drug levothyroxine. It is also sold under the brand names Levothroid, Levoxyl, Tirosint, and Unithroid. The drug is most commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism or low thyroid hormone levels. It may also be prescribed to treat an enlarged thyroid gland, also known as a goiter. The drug works by replacing a hormone that is normally produced by the thyroid gland. It helps with the body's metabolism and energy function.
