Levothyroxine Sodium
Levothyroxine sodium is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It functions as a replacement for endogenous T4 in patients with hypothyroidism, helping to restore normal metabolic activity and energy levels.
Dosage by Body Weight
Administer as a single daily dose on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Avoid taking iron, calcium, or antacids within 4 hours of administration as they can decrease absorption.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 10-15 mcg/kg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Typically for neonates and infants. Crush tablet and mix with a small amount of water, breastmilk, or formula. Do not mix with soy formula.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 8-10 mcg/kg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Regularly monitor serum TSH and free T4 levels to adjust dosage.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 6-8 mcg/kg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Dosage should be titrated individually to maintain euthyroid state.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 5-6 mcg/kg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure consistent timing of administration relative to meals.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 4-5 mcg/kg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor for signs of overtreatment (e.g., irritability, sleep disturbances, rapid heart rate).
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 10-15 mcg/kg | Once daily | Typically for neonates and infants. Crush tablet and mix with a small amount of water, breastmilk, or formula. Do not mix with soy formula. |
| 5-7 kg | 8-10 mcg/kg | Once daily | Regularly monitor serum TSH and free T4 levels to adjust dosage. |
| 8-10 kg | 6-8 mcg/kg | Once daily | Dosage should be titrated individually to maintain euthyroid state. |
| 11-15 kg | 5-6 mcg/kg | Once daily | Ensure consistent timing of administration relative to meals. |
| 16-20 kg | 4-5 mcg/kg | Once daily | Monitor for signs of overtreatment (e.g., irritability, sleep disturbances, rapid heart rate). |
Formulation
Purpose
Used as replacement therapy for primary, secondary, and tertiary hypothyroidism, and for pituitary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) suppression.
Generic Name
Levothyroxine SodiumBranded Drug Names
Levothyroxine Sodium is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.