What is Levothyroxine (T4)?
Thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism in people and dogs.
At Pharmacy on the Park, Levothyroxine is compounded in our pharmacy from a prescription, in the strength and form your prescriber orders.
How does it work?
A synthetic form of T4, the main hormone the thyroid gland makes.
What is it used for?
Thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism in people and dogs. Your prescriber determines the use, dose and monitoring.
How is it used?
- Capsule. Capsules are swallowed by mouth. For pets, a capsule can often be hidden in a small treat if your veterinarian agrees.
- Slow-release capsule. Slow-release capsules are swallowed whole. Do not open, crush or chew them.
- Transdermal gel (PLO). Transdermal gel comes in pre-measured syringes. Wearing a glove, rub the measured amount into the hairless inner ear, alternating ears if directed.
Follow the directions on your label. The strength, amount and schedule are set by your prescriber.
Side effects and safety
Commonly reported: Signs of too much thyroid hormone: fast heartbeat, restlessness, weight loss. Call your prescriber or us about any reaction that concerns you.
Who should use caution?
People or pets with untreated adrenal insufficiency or heart disease (start low). Share your full medical history and medication list with your prescriber.
How should it be stored?
Store syringes as directed on the label, capped and away from heat. Always follow the storage directions and beyond-use date on your label, and keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
Why is it compounded?
Compounding lets us prepare Levothyroxine in the exact strength your prescriber orders, in forms such as capsule, slow-release capsule, transdermal gel (plo). We can also leave out dyes, fillers or allergens when needed.
Levothyroxine is also prepared in combination with Liothyronine (T3). See combination preparations in our library.