How Long Do Levothyroxine Tablets Take to Work?
Levothyroxine is a medication used to treat an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) by replacing the missing hormones the gland needs. The thyroid gland is a gland in the neck just in front of the windpipe and despite its small size, it is vital to the function of nearly every organ in the body.
The thyroid gland is responsible for making the thyroid hormone, a hormone that is essential to the body’s metabolism and energy levels. This hormone also regulates body temperature, affects the function of the heart and other muscles, and can impact bone and brain development. If the gland does not produce enough hormones for all these processes it can slow the body down and cause a wide range of symptoms including:
- Fatigue and muscle pain
- Feeling cold
- Dry skin and hair
- Weight gain
- Depression
What Causes an Underactive Thyroid?
Whilst some people can be born with hypothyroidism, the majority of cases are caused by the immune system attacking the gland or from treatments relating to thyroid cancer or overactive thyroid. Both males and females can develop hypothyroidism, but it is generally more common among females.
Treating an Underactive Thyroid
There is no way to prevent an underactive thyroid, but there is medical thyroid treatment available for both children and adults to regulate levels of thyroid hormones. By taking a daily dose of Levothyroxine tablets, those with hypothyroidism do not have to suffer. With the correct treatment, those with the condition should be able to live a relatively normal life.
How Long Does It Take for Levothyroxine to Work?
Levothyroxine tablets will begin to work right away, but it can take several weeks for you to experience noticeable changes in your symptoms. You may also find that you need to adjust your dosage until your levels of thyroid hormones are correct. Regular blood tests will be required to ensure the right dosage is being taken.
How Can I Get Levothyroxine?
From the comfort of your own home, you can buy Levothyroxine tablets online through one of the UK’s leading online pharmacies, Pharmacy Planet. Just fill in a short assessment for our prescription team to review and then your thyroid treatment will be delivered straight to your door.
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925