Generic Synthroid
Thyroxine 25/50/100/200mcg

Information About Synthroid Safety

Synthroid one of the brand names of a popular thyroid medication known generically as levothyroxine. It is a serious medication which replaces the naturally created thyroid hormone when a body is unable to produce it on its own.  It is mostly prescribed to patients afflicted with hypothyroidism. Some people get confused, however. They know that hyperthyroidism is one cause of obesity and weight gain; and they know that overweight people with hyperthyroidism may lose weight when they begin to take Synthroid (because the hormonal balance is restored). It’s easy to disregard the hormone issue and simply associate the drug with weight loss.

It is not, however, any kind of weight loss supplement. Any weight loss by those taking Synthroid for valid reasons is more a secondary effect than directly related to the hormone’s purpose. In fact, even those who are taking it for a valid reason do not always lose weight. People who take Synthroid as a weight-loss drug  are at best going to be disappointed (because there’s no hormonal imbalance within them for it to repair) and at worst, could upset their own bodies to the extent that it puts them at the brink of death (especially if they are taking large doses of it).

In much the same manner, the hormone should not be taken to improve fertility unless a doctor determines that infertility was caused by hyperthyroidism. You could actually become sick from consumption of the hormone and have a more difficult time conceiving.

Another safety issue which commonly comes up in discussions of Synthroid is side effects. There are a lot of potential side effects which patients taking the drug have experienced. The range is large – anything from chest pain to insomnia to fevers and rashes. When taking this drug, you may find yourself frustrated or overwhelmed by the side effects, but before you quit it altogether, make an appointment with your doctor and discuss your dosage. Many side effects manifest themselves when there is too much of the thyroid hormone (kind of like an overcorrection of Synthroid). The exception is, of course, emergencies. If the side effects are severe, don’t wait – instead, visit your local emergency room. Women should be careful how long they take the hormone in the long term. It has been demonstrated in some studies to cause reduced bone density and osteoporosis.

Synthroid has a specific purpose and using it to treat conditions and issues not directly related to the thyroid hormone is danger and foolish. If you believe you do have a thyroid condition, first consult your physician.