Synthroid

NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets Generic Name levothyroxine

Peak 1-3 weeks

Trade Name Synthroid Onset Unknown

Classification Hormones

Dose

Route

Time/frequency

75 mcg PO Q Day Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions N/A 1-3weeks Normal Dosage Range 75 mcg/day

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered)

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions

Principal effect is increasing metabolic rate of body tissues: Promote gluconeogenesis. Increase utilization and mobilization of glycogen stores, Stimulate protein synthesis,

Hypersensitivity. Recent MI

P r o m o t e c e l l g r o w t h a n d d i f f e r e n t i a t i o n Contain T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) activity, Replacement in deficiency states with restoration of normal hormonal balance

S w a l l o w i n g d i f f i c u l t y ( l e v o t h y r o x i n e t a b l e t s )

Thyrotoxicosis. Common side effects CNS: insomnia, irritability, nervousness, headache, CV: arrhythmias, tachycardia, angina pectoris, hypotension, increased blood pressure, increased cardiac output, GI: cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, levothyroxine tablets: choking,

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) None For this patient

Lab value alterations caused by medicine Monitor thyroid function studies prior to and during therapy

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication For patients with difficulty swallowing, levothyroxine tablets can be crushed and placed in 5-10 mL of water. Try to take the med at the same time each day. Before breakfast with water.

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment) Assess apical pulse and blood pressure prior to and periodically during therapy. Assess for tachyarrhythmias and chest pain

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? tachycardia, chest pain, nervousness, insomnia, diaphoresis, tremors, weight loss. These things indicated overdose, typical treatment is to hold dose for 2-6 days

Evaluation Check after giving Diuresis, weight loss, Increased sense of well being, Increases energy, pulse rate, appetite, psychomotor activity, Normalization of skin texture and hair, increased T3 and T4 Levels.