Hashimoto Thyroiditis Medication

Updated: Feb 01, 2022
  • Author: Stephanie L Lee, MD, PhD; Chief Editor: George T Griffing, MD  more...
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Medication

Medication Summary

As previously discussed, the treatment of choice for Hashimoto thyroiditis (or hypothyroidism from any cause) is thyroid hormone replacement. The drug of choice is orally administered levothyroxine sodium, usually for life.

Tailor and titrate the dose of levothyroxine sodium to meet the individual patient's requirements. The goal of therapy is to restore a clinically and biochemically euthyroid state.

The following medications interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine from the gastrointestinal tract, and patients should be advised to separate ingestion of these compounds from ingestion of levothyroxine by at least 4 hours:

  • Cholestyramine

  • Ferrous sulfate

  • Sucralfate

  • Calcium carbonate

  • Aluminium hydroxide and other antacids

  • Iron-containing multivitamins

Medications that enhance the metabolism and clearance of levothyroxine may necessitate an increase in the replacement dose. These medications include phenytoin, carbamazepine, and rifampin.

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Thyroid Products

Class Summary

These are used as thyroid hormone replacements.

Levothyroxine sodium (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Levothroid)

This is a synthetic thyroid hormone (T4). It is available in 12 strengths for easy dose adjustment. Absorption of levothyroxine sodium is 48-79% when it is administered orally; absorption is higher in persons in a fasting state. Normal T4 levels are achieved within 24 hours and normal T3 levels are reached within a few days. Thyroid hormone is involved in normal metabolism, growth, and development.

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