Drug Synthroid

Clinical Medication Worksheet Generic Name Levothyroxine Peak 1 – 3 weeks

Trade Name Synthroid Onset Unknown

Classification

Dose

Route

Time/frequency

Hormone 150 mcg PO QD Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions: 1 – 3 weeks NA Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions: Hypersensitivity

Why Med ordered: Hypothyroidism

Common side effects: Excessive dose may cause hyperthyroidism, nervousness, and headache

Mechanism of action and indications: Replacement of or supplementation to endogenous thyroid hormones. Increases metabolic rate of body tissues: promotes gluconeogenesis, stimulates protein synthesis. Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically): Take other meds 1 hr before or 2 hrs after.

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration) Assess apical pulse and BP, Chest pain, tachyarrhythmias

Lab value alterations caused by medicine: Monitor TSH concentrations 8 – 12 if brand is changed Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication:

Take at same time daily, take missed dose ASAP. Call Dr. if heat intolerant, chest pain, weight loss greater than 2 lbs. per week. Take separate from other meds. Take with water. Assessment Evaluation Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving med? Tachycardia, diaphoresis, wt loss Resolution of hypothyroidism and normalization of thyroid hormone lab levels