Side Effects

Levothyroxine Side Effects

Levothyroxine is a common medication prescribed for hypothyroidism, but it can cause side effects, especially when the dose is too high or when starting or adjusting the medication[1].

Common side effects include:

  • Excessive sweating[1]
  • Trouble sleeping or insomnia[1]
  • Fast or irregular heart rate (heart palpitations)[1]
  • Headache[1]
  • Irritability or nervousness[1]
  • Larger-than-normal appetite[1]
  • Unintentional weight loss[1]
  • Sensitivity to heat (heat intolerance)[1]
  • Hair loss or changes[1]
  • Diarrhea[1]
  • Nausea or vomiting[2]
  • Feeling sick (nausea)[2]
  • Fever[4]
  • Changes in menstrual cycle[4]
  • Joint pain or leg cramps[4]

Rare but serious side effects may include:

  • Tremors[1]
  • Mood changes[1]
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath[1]
  • Bone fractures[1]
  • Chest pain[1]
  • Seizures[3]
  • Harder-to-manage diabetes[1]
  • Allergic reactions (hives, itching, rash, flushing, swelling of hands, feet, or lower legs)[4]

Levothyroxine can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism if the dose is too high, such as increased heart rate, nervousness, sleep problems, tremor, excessive sweating, and unintended weight loss[3]. Serious complications from excessive dosing can include seizures, coma, and, in very rare cases, death[3].

To minimize side effects and ensure safe use, it’s important to take levothyroxine exactly as prescribed and attend all follow-up appointments for dosage adjustments and monitoring[5]. Side effects often subside once the optimal dose is found[2].

References

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