For years, people with an underactive thyroid have been prescribed Levothyroxine to balance their thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine is an incredibly effective medication when it comes to underactive thyroid treatment, but the thyroid is an amazing organ when it comes to self-regulating. It is important to monitor your symptoms and have regular check-ins with your GP or endocrinologist so your medication levels can be adjusted as needed.

How Does an Underactive Thyroid Affect Your Body?
An underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormones you need for your body to function properly. It can take time for the effects to become noticeable so you may not even realise you have hypothyroidism at first. This is especially true since the early symptoms, tiredness and weight gain, can easily be attributed to stress, ageing, or being overworked.

• A visibly swollen thyroid
• Cold sensitivity
• Muscle pain and weakness
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Hair loss
• High cholesterol
• Lowered heart rate
• Face swelling
• Hoarse voice
• Joint swelling
• Irregular or heavy periods
• Mood swings and depression
• Impaired memory

Because many of these symptoms can greatly impact your quality of life, it is important to not only self-monitor your symptoms and medications but to take your medications correctly so that it is as effective as possible.

When Did You Start on Levothyroxine?
Your doctor will most likely start you on a lowered dose of Levothyroxine and raise your dose gradually based on your thyroid function tests. Your optimal dose will be determined by the results of these tests and may need to be adjusted as time goes by.

What Time Are You Taking Your Levothyroxine Tablets?
Studies have shown that the absorption rate of Levothyroxine is highest if you take it at the right time in relation to when you eat. It should be taken with a glass of water on an empty stomach.

Even a small snack could affect the effectiveness of the medication.

If you prefer to take it in the morning, take Levothyroxine every day around 30 minutes before you have breakfast. At night, you should take it at least 3 hours after your evening meal.

Have You Started Taking Any Other Medications?
It is important to check with your GP, pharmacist, or other medical professional if you are taking any other medications or starting a new medication. This includes any vitamins, supplements, or over the counter medications as these can also interact with Levothyroxine.

Are You Going Through Hormonal Changes?
If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, just gave birth, or are going through the menopause, your hormone levels will fluctuate and this could impact your thyroid levels. Even being stressed can impact your hormones.

It isn’t abnormal for women’s hormone levels to shift over time so it is important to keep track of any changes that may be due to your body naturally changing so your underactive thyroid medication can be adjusted as needed.

If you suffer from under active thyroid problems and have been prescribed Levothyroxine, you can buy Levothyroxine tablets online in the UK from Pharmacy Planet. We will have your medications shipped conveniently, swiftly, and safely right to your doorstep.