If you’re taking levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism you’re probably wondering if the medication could have any effect on your heart rate. The answer is that while levothyroxine can cause a very slight drop in heart rate it’s usually not enough to cause any noticeable symptoms or problems. In fact if your heart rate does drop while you’re taking levothyroxine it’s usually only by a few beats per minute and not enough to cause any problems.
There are a few rare side effects of levothyroxine that can cause a more significant drop in heart rate but these are typically only seen in people who are taking very high doses of the medication. If you’re taking a normal dose of levothyroxine and you experience a significant drop in heart rate you should talk to your doctor about it.
Overall levothyroxine is considered a very safe medication with few side effects. So if you’re taking it to treat your hypothyroidism you shouldn’t worry too much about the possibility of it affecting your heart rate.
What is levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine is a synthetic T4 hormone used to treat hypothyroidism.
How does levothyroxine work?
Levothyroxine works by replacing the missing or deficient thyroid hormone in the body.
What are the side effects of levothyroxine?
Side effects of levothyroxine may include weight loss headache increased appetite sweating and trouble sleeping.
Who should not take levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine should not be taken by people who are allergic to it have untreated adrenal gland problems or have had a recent heart attack.
What are the possible interactions with levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine may interact with other medications such as blood thinners antidepressants birth control pills and heart medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose of levothyroxine?
If you miss a dose of levothyroxine take it as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for your next dose skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
What happens if I overdose on levothyroxine?
If you overdose on levothyroxine you may experience tremors irregular heartbeat seizures or coma.
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have overdosed on levothyroxine.
What are the storage requirements for levothyroxine?
Levothyroxine should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
What is the generic name for levothyroxine?
The generic name for levothyroxine is thyroxine.
What is the brand name for levothyroxine?
The brand name for levothyroxine is Synthroid.
How long does it take for levothyroxine to work?
Levothyroxine begins working immediately but it may take several weeks for the full effect of the medication to be felt.
How long does levothyroxine stay in your system?
Levothyroxine has a half-life of about seven days so it stays in the system for about a month.
Is levothyroxine a controlled substance?
No levothyroxine is not a controlled substance.
Is levothyroxine addictive?
No levothyroxine is not addictive.
Can levothyroxine cause low heart rate?
Yes levothyroxine can cause low heart rate.
