Patient EducationInstruct patient to report signs of hyperthyroidism
such as diarrhea, excessive sweating, insomnia, palpitations weight loss, chest pain,shortness of breath, leg cramps, tremors, vomiting and changes in menstrual periods. Instruct female patient of childbearing age to notify
prescriber immediately if she becomes pregnant because levothyroxine dosage may need to be increased Tell the patient to notify prescriber if rash or hives
develop during drug use Inform patient the drug may require a few weeks to take effect
Instruct patient to separate iron and calcium supplements and antacids by at least 4 hours from levothroxine doses
Stress the need to take levothyroxine with a full glass of water to avoid choking, gagging, and developing heartburn afterward
Inform patient that levothyroxine replaces a hormone that is normally produced by the thyroid gland and will need to take it for life.
Instruct patient to take drug at least 30 minutes before
breakfast because drug absorption is increased on an empty stomach and evening doses may cause insomnia |
Nursing ConsiderationsAdminister levothyroxine tablets as a single daily dose 30 minutes before breakfast.
If patient has difficulty swallowing, crush tablet and
suspend in a small amount of water of food Be aware that drug should not be given subcutaneously
Monitor prothrombin time of patient who is receiving
anticoagulants; may require dose adjustments Monitor blood glucose level of diabetic patient.
Monitor increased pulse rate and rhythm
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