Nature-Throid Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (THYE-roid)
Nature-Throid Oral Uses
Thyroid hormone is a natural product made from animal thyroid glands (usually pig). It contains 2 natural chemicals (liothyronine and levothyroxine) that are normally produced by the thyroid gland. It is used to treat underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Low thyroid levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. It is important to have adequate levels of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream to maintain normal mental and physical activity.
This medication is also used to lower thyroid function in certain diseases such as enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is also used to manage thyroid cancer and to test thyroid activity. Thyroid hormone should not be used for male or female infertility in patients with normal thyroid production. The risks of use are high and thyroid hormone provides no benefit.
How To Use Nature-Throid Oral
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily before breakfast or as directed by your doctor.
Dosage is based on your medical condition, thyroid hormone levels, and response to therapy. There are different brands of thyroid hormone available. They are not interchangeable because the amounts of the 2 thyroid hormones may be different in each product. Do not change brands without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication 4 hours before or after taking any products containing aluminum or iron, such as antacids, sucralfate, and vitamins/minerals. Take this medication 4-5 hours after taking any bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine and colestipol. These products react with thyroid, preventing its full absorption.
Certain foods and supplements (e.g., children's soy formula) may affect how much thyroid hormone is absorbed. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without talking with your doctor. Thyroid replacement therapy is usually taken for life.
Symptoms of low thyroid levels include tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heart rate and sensitivity to cold. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 2 to 3 days of treatment.
