Levothyroxine Sodium - Levothyroxine Sodium capsule prescribing information
WARNING: NOT FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY or FOR WEIGHT LOSS
- Thyroid hormones, including Levothyroxine Sodium capsules, either alone or with other therapeutic agents, should not be used for the treatment of obesity or for weight loss.
- In euthyroid patients, doses within the range of daily hormonal requirements are ineffective for weight reduction.
- Larger doses may produce serious or even life threatening manifestations of toxicity, particularly when given in association with sympathomimetic amines such as those used for their anorectic effects [see Adverse Reactions (6) , Drug Interactions (7.7) , and Overdosage (10) ].
INDICATION AND USAGE
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are L-thyroxine (T4) indicated for adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older with:
- Hypothyroidism - As replacement therapy in primary (thyroidal), secondary (pituitary), and tertiary (hypothalamic) congenital or acquired hypothyroidism (1 )
- Pituitary Thyrotropin (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone, TSH) Suppression - As an adjunct to surgery and radioiodine therapy in the management of thyrotropin-dependent well-differentiated thyroid cancer (1 )
Limitations of Use:
Hypothyroidism
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are indicated as a replacement therapy in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older with primary (thyroidal), secondary (pituitary), and tertiary (hypothalamic) congenital or acquired hypothyroidism.
Pituitary Thyrotropin (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone, TSH) Suppression
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are indicated as an adjunct to surgery and radioiodine therapy in the management of adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older with thyrotropin-dependent well-differentiated thyroid cancer.
Limitations of Use:
- Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are not indicated for suppression of benign thyroid nodules and nontoxic diffuse goiter in iodine-sufficient patients as there are no clinical benefits and overtreatment with Levothyroxine Sodium capsules may induce hyperthyroidism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ].
- Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are not indicated for treatment of transient hypothyroidism during the recovery phase of subacute thyroiditis.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
- Administer once daily, on an empty stomach, one-half to one hour before breakfast (2.1 )
- Administer at least 4 hours before or after drugs that are known to interfere with absorption (2.1 )
- Evaluate the need for dose adjustments when regularly administering within an hour of certain foods that may affect Levothyroxine Sodium capsules absorption (2.1 )
- Swallow Levothyroxine Sodium capsules whole, do not cut, crush, or chew (2.1 )
- Starting dose depends on a variety of factors, including age, body weight, cardiovascular status, concomitant medical conditions (including pregnancy), concomitant medications, co-administered food, and the specific nature of the condition being treated. Peak therapeutic effect may not be attained for 4-6 weeks (2.2 )
- See full prescribing information for dosing in specific patient populations (2.3 )
- Adequacy of therapy determined with periodic monitoring of TSH and/or T4 as well as clinical status (2.4 )
General Administration Information
Administer Levothyroxine Sodium capsules as a single daily oral dose, on an empty stomach, one-half to one hour before breakfast.
Administer Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at least 4 hours before or after drugs known to interfere with Levothyroxine Sodium capsules absorption [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ]
Evaluate the need for dose adjustments when regularly administering within an hour of certain foods that may affect Levothyroxine Sodium capsules absorption [see Drug Interactions (7.9) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].
Swallow Levothyroxine Sodium capsules whole, do not cut, crush, or chew.
General Principles of Dosing
The dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules for hypothyroidism or pituitary TSH suppression depends on a variety of factors including the patient's age, body weight, cardiovascular status, concomitant medical conditions (including pregnancy), concomitant medications, co-administered food, and the specific nature of the condition being treated [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) , Warnings and Precautions (5) , and Drug Interactions (7) ] . Dosing must be individualized to account for these factors and dose adjustments made based on periodic assessment of the patient's clinical response and laboratory parameters [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ].
The peak therapeutic effect of a given dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules may not be attained for 4 to 6 weeks.
Dosing In Specific Patient Populations
Primary Hypothyroidism in Adults and in Adolescents in Whom Growth and Puberty are Complete
Start Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at the full replacement dose in otherwise healthy, non-elderly individuals who have been hypothyroid for only a short time (such as a few months).The average full replacement dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are approximately 1.6 mcg per kg per day (for example: 100-125 mcg per day for a 70 kg adult).
Adjust the dose by 12.5 to 25 mcg increments every 4 to 6 weeks until the patient is clinically euthyroid and the serum TSH returns to normal. Doses greater than 200 mcg per day are seldom required. An inadequate response to daily doses greater than 300 mcg per day is rare and may indicate poor compliance, malabsorption, drug interactions, or a combination of these factors.
For elderly patients or patients with underlying cardiovascular disease, start with a dose of 12.5 to 25 mcg per day. Increase the dose every 6 to 8 weeks, as needed, until the patient is clinically euthyroid and the serum TSH returns to normal. The full replacement dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules may be less than 1 mcg per kg per day in elderly patients.
In patients with severe longstanding hypothyroidism, start with a dose of 12.5 to 25 mcg per day. Adjust the dose in 12.5 to 25 mcg increments every 2 to 4 weeks until the patient is clinically euthyroid and the serum TSH level is normalized.
Secondary or Tertiary Hypothyroidism
Start Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at the full replacement dose in otherwise healthy, non-elderly individuals. Start with a lower dose in elderly patients with underlying cardiovascular disease or patients with severe longstanding hypothyroidism as described above. Serum TSH is not a reliable measure of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dose adequacy in patients with secondary or tertiary hypothyroidism, and should not be used to monitor therapy. Use the serum free-T4 level to monitor adequacy of therapy in this patient population. Titrate Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dosing per above instructions until the patient is clinically euthyroid and the serum free-T4 level is restored to the upper half of the normal range.
Pediatric Dosage - Congenital or Acquired Hypothyroidism
Only administer Levothyroxine Sodium capsules to pediatric patients 6 years and older who are able to swallow an intact capsule .
The recommended daily dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules in pediatric patients with hypothyroidism is based on body weight and changes with age as described in Table 1. Start Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at the full daily dose in most pediatric patients. Start at a lower dose in children at risk for hyperactivity (see below). Monitor for clinical and laboratory response [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] .
| Age | Daily Dose Per Kg Body Weight The dose should be adjusted based on clinical response and laboratory parameters [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]. |
|---|---|
| 6-12 years | 4-5 mcg/kg/day |
| Greater than 12 years but growth and puberty incomplete | 2-3 mcg/kg/day |
| Growth and puberty complete | 1.6 mcg/kg/day |
Children at risk for hyperactivity : To minimize the risk of hyperactivity in children, start at one-fourth the recommended full replacement dose, and increase on a weekly basis by one-fourth the full-recommended replacement dose until the full recommended replacement dose is reached.
Pregnancy
Preexisting Hypothyroidism: Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dose requirements may increase during pregnancy . Measure serum TSH and free-T4 as soon as pregnancy is confirmed and, at a minimum, during each trimester of pregnancy. In patients with primary hypothyroidism, maintain serum TSH in the trimester-specific reference range. For patients with serum TSH above the normal trimester specific range, increase the dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules by 12.5 to 25 mcg per day and measure TSH every four weeks until a stable Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dose is reached and serum TSH is within the normal trimester specific range. Reduce Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dosage to pre-pregnancy levels immediately after delivery and measure serum TSH levels 4 to 8 weeks postpartum to ensure the Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dose is appropriate.
New Onset Hypothyroidism: Normalize thyroid function as rapidly as possible. In patients with moderate to severe signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism, start Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at the full replacement dose (1.6 mcg per kg body weight per day). In patients with mild hypothyroidism (TSH < 10 mIU per Liter), start Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at 1.0 mcg per kg body weight per day. Evaluate serum TSH every 4 weeks and adjust Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dosage until serum TSH is within the normal trimester specific range [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ].
TSH Suppression in Well-Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Generally, TSH is suppressed to below 0.1 mIU per Liter, and this usually requires a Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dose of greater than 2 mcg per kg per day. However, in patients with high-risk tumors, the target level for TSH suppression may be lower.
Monitoring TSH and/or Thyroxine (T4) Levels
Assess the adequacy of therapy by periodic assessment of laboratory tests and clinical evaluation. Persistent clinical and laboratory evidence of hypothyroidism despite an apparent adequate replacement dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules may be evidence of inadequate absorption, poor compliance, drug interactions, or a combination of these factors.
Adults
In adult patients with primary hypothyroidism, monitor serum TSH levels after an interval of 6 to 8 weeks after any change in dose. In patients on a stable and appropriate replacement dose, evaluate clinical and biochemical response every 6 to 12 months and whenever there is a change in the patient's clinical status.
Pediatrics
In patients with congenital hypothyroidism, assess the adequacy of replacement therapy by measuring both serum TSH and total or free-T4. Monitor TSH and total or free-T4 in children is as follows: at 2 and 4 weeks after the initiation of treatment 2 weeks after any change in dosage, and then every 3 to 12 months thereafter following dose stabilization until growth is completed. Poor compliance or abnormal values may necessitate more frequent monitoring. Perform routine clinical examination, including assessment of mental and physical growth and development, and bone maturation at regular intervals.
While the general aim of therapy is to normalize the serum TSH level, TSH may not normalize in some patients due to in utero hypothyroidism causing a resetting of the pituitary-thyroid feedback. Failure of the serum T4 to increase into the upper half of the normal range within 2 weeks of initiation of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules therapy and/or of the serum TSH to decrease below 20 mIU per Liter within 4 weeks may indicate the child is not receiving adequate therapy. Assess compliance, dose of medication administered, and method of administration prior to increasing the dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] .
Secondary (Pituitary) and Tertiary (Hypothalamic) Hypothyroidism
Monitor serum free-T4 levels maintain in the upper half of the normal range in these patients.
DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are amber-colored, round/biconvex capsules, imprinted with a dosage strength specific letter on one side and containing a viscous amber-colored liquid and are available as follows:
| Strength (mcg) | Imprint Code |
|---|---|
| 13 | A |
| 25 | E |
| 50 | G |
| 75 | H |
| 88 | J |
| 100 | K |
| 112 | M |
| 125 | N |
| 137 | P |
| 150 | S |
| 175 | U |
| 200 | Y |
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Experience with levothyroxine use in pregnant women, including data from post-marketing studies, have not reported increased rates of major birth defects or miscarriages [see Data ]. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with untreated hypothyroidism in pregnancy. Since thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels may increase during pregnancy, TSH should be monitored and levothyroxine sodium capsules dosage adjusted during pregnancy [see Clinical Considerations ] . There are no animal studies conducted with levothyroxine during pregnancy. Levothyroxine sodium capsules should not be discontinued during pregnancy and hypothyroidism diagnosed during pregnancy should be promptly treated.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk
Maternal hypothyroidism during pregnancy is associated with a higher rate of complications, including spontaneous abortion, gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, and premature delivery. Untreated maternal hypothyroidism may have an adverse effect on fetal neurocognitive development.
Dose Adjustments During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period
Pregnancy may increase levothyroxine sodium capsules requirements. Serum TSH level should be monitored and the levothyroxine sodium capsules dosage adjusted during pregnancy. Since postpartum TSH levels are similar to preconception values, the levothyroxine sodium capsules dosage should return to the pre-pregnancy dose immediately after delivery [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ].
Data
Human Data
Levothyroxine is approved for use as a replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. There is a long experience of levothyroxine use in pregnant women, including data from post-marketing studies that have not reported increased rates of fetal malformations, miscarriages or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes associated with levothyroxine use in pregnant women.
Lactation
Risk Summary
Limited published studies report that levothyroxine is present in human milk. However, there is insufficient information to determine the effects of levothyroxine on the breastfed infant and no available information on the effects of levothyroxine on milk production. Adequate levothyroxine treatment during lactation may normalize milk production in hypothyroid lactating mothers. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for Levothyroxine Sodium capsules and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from levothyroxine sodium capsules or from the underlying maternal condition.
Pediatric Use
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are indicated for use in pediatric patients 6 years and older. The initial dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules varies with age and body weight. Dosing adjustments are based on an assessment of the individual patient's clinical and laboratory parameters [see Dosage and Administration (2.3 , 2.4) ]
In children in whom a diagnosis of permanent hypothyroidism has not been established, discontinue Levothyroxine Sodium capsules administration for a trial period. Obtain serum T4 and TSH levels at the end of the trial period, and use laboratory test results and clinical assessments to guide diagnosis and treatment, if warranted.
Congenital Hypothyroidism [see Dosage and Administration (2.3 , 2.4) ]
Rapid restoration of normal serum T4 concentrations is essential for preventing the adverse effects of congenital hypothyroidism on intellectual development as well as on overall physical growth and maturation. Therefore, initiate levothyroxine therapy immediately upon diagnosis. Levothyroxine is generally continued for life in these patients.
Closely monitor children during the first two weeks of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules therapy for cardiac overload and arrhythmias.
Closely monitor patients to avoid undertreatment and overtreatment. Undertreatment may have deleterious effects on intellectual development and linear growth. Overtreatment may adversely affect the tempo of brain maturation and accelerate the bone age with resultant premature closure of the epiphyses and compromised adult stature.
Acquired Hypothyroidism in Pediatric Patients
Closely monitor patients to avoid undertreatment and overtreatment. Undertreatment may result in poor school performance due to impaired concentration and slowed mentation and in reduced adult height. Overtreatment may accelerate the bone age and result in premature epiphyseal closure and compromised adult stature.
Treated children may manifest a period of catch-up growth, which may be adequate in some cases to normalize adult height. In children with severe or prolonged hypothyroidism, catch-up growth may not be adequate to normalize adult height.
Geriatric Use
Because of the increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease among the elderly, initiate Levothyroxine Sodium capsules therapy at less than the full replacement dose [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Dosage and Administration (2.3) ]. Atrial arrhythmias can occur in elderly patients. Atrial fibrillation is the most common of the arrhythmias observed with levothyroxine overtreatment in the elderly .
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are contraindicated in patients with uncorrected adrenal insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ].
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
- Cardiac adverse reactions in the elderly and in patients with underlying cardiovascular disease: Initiate Levothyroxine Sodium capsules at less than the full replacement dose because of the increased risk of cardiac adverse reactions, including atrial fibrillation. (2.3 , 5.1 , 8.5 )
- Myxedema coma: Do not use oral thyroid hormone drug products to treat myxedema coma. (5.2 )
- Acute adrenal crisis in patients with concomitant adrenal insufficiency: Treat with replacement glucocorticoids prior to initiation of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules treatment. (5.3 )
- Prevention of hyperthyroidism or incomplete treatment of hypothyroidism: Proper dose titration and careful monitoring is critical to prevent the persistence of hypothyroidism or the development of hyperthyroidism. (5.4 )
- Worsening of diabetic control: Therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus may worsen glycemic control and result in increased antidiabetic agent or insulin requirements. Carefully monitor glycemic control after starting, changing, or discontinuing thyroid hormone therapy. (5.5 )
- Decreased bone mineral density associated with thyroid hormone over-replacement: Over-replacement can increase bone resorption and decrease bone mineral density. Give the lowest effective dose. (5.6 )
Cardiac Adverse Reactions in the Elderly and in Patients with Underlying Cardiovascular Disease
Overtreatment with levothyroxine may cause an increase in heart rate, cardiac wall thickness, and cardiac contractility and may precipitate angina or arrhythmias, particularly in patients with cardiovascular disease and in elderly patients. Initiate Levothyroxine Sodium capsules therapy in this population at lower doses than those recommended in younger individuals or in patients without cardiac disease [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ].
Monitor for cardiac arrhythmias during surgical procedures in patients with coronary artery disease receiving suppressive Levothyroxine Sodium capsules therapy. Monitor patients receiving concomitant Levothyroxine Sodium capsules and sympathomimetic agents for signs and symptoms of coronary insufficiency . If cardiac symptoms develop or worsen, reduce the Levothyroxine Sodium capsules dose or withhold it for one week and restart at a lower dose.
Myxedema Coma
Myxedema coma is a life-threatening emergency characterized by poor circulation and hypometabolism, and may result in unpredictable absorption of levothyroxine sodium from the gastrointestinal tract. Use of oral thyroid hormone drug products is not recommended to treat myxedema coma. Administer thyroid hormone products formulated for intravenous administration to treat myxedema coma.
Acute Adrenal Crisis in Patients with Concomitant Adrenal Insufficiency
Thyroid hormone increases metabolic clearance of glucocorticoids. Initiation of thyroid hormone therapy prior to initiating glucocorticoid therapy precipitate an acute adrenal crisis in patient with adrenal insufficiency. Treat patients with adrenal insufficiency with replacement glucocorticoids prior to initiating treatment with Levothyroxine Sodium capsules [see Contraindications (4) ].
Prevention of Hyperthyroidism or Incomplete Treatment of Hypothyroidism
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules have a narrow therapeutic index. Over- or under-treatment with Levothyroxine Sodium capsules may have negative effects on growth and development, cardiovascular function, bone metabolism, reproductive function, cognitive function, emotional state, gastrointestinal function, and on glucose and lipid metabolism. Titrate the dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules carefully and monitor response to titration to avoid these effects [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] . Monitor for the presence of drug or food interactions when using Levothyroxine Sodium capsules and adjust the dose as necessary [see Drug Interactions (7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].
Worsening of Diabetic Control
Addition of levothyroxine therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus may worsen glycemic control and result in increased antidiabetic agent or insulin requirements. Carefully monitor glycemic control after starting, changing, or discontinuing thyroid hormone therapy [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] .
Decreased Bone Mineral Density Associated with Thyroid Hormone Over-Replacement
Increased bone resorption and decreased bone mineral density may occur as a result of levothyroxine over-replacement, particularly in post-menopausal women. The increased bone resorption may be associated with increased serum levels and urinary excretion of calcium and phosphorous, elevations in bone alkaline phosphatase, and suppressed serum parathyroid hormone levels. Administer the minimum dose of Levothyroxine Sodium capsules that achieves the desired clinical and biochemical response to mitigate against this risk.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
Adverse reactions associated with Levothyroxine Sodium capsules therapy are primarily those of hyperthyroidism due to therapeutic overdosage [see Warnings and Precautions (5) and Overdosage (10) ]. They include the following:
- General: fatigue, increased appetite, weight loss, heat intolerance, fever, excessive sweating
- Central nervous system: headache, hyperactivity, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, emotional lability, insomnia
- Musculoskeletal: tremors, muscle weakness, muscle spasm
- Cardiovascular: palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmias, increased pulse and blood pressure, heart failure, angina, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest
- Respiratory : dyspnea
- Gastrointestinal (GI): diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, elevations in liver function tests
- Dermatologic: hair loss, flushing, rash
- Endocrine: decreased bone mineral density
- Reproductive: menstrual irregularities, impaired fertility
Seizures have been reported rarely with the institution of levothyroxine therapy.
Adverse Reactions in Children
Pseudotumor cerebri and slipped capital femoral epiphysis have been reported in children receiving levothyroxine therapy. Overtreatment may result in craniosynostosis in infants and premature closure of the epiphyses in children with resultant compromised adult height.
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Hypersensitivity reactions to inactive ingredients have occurred in patients treated with thyroid hormone products. These include urticaria, pruritus, skin rash, flushing, angioedema, various GI symptoms (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea), fever, arthralgia, serum sickness and wheezing. Hypersensitivity to levothyroxine itself is not known to occur.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
See full prescribing information for drugs that affect thyroid hormone pharmacokinetics and metabolism (e.g., absorption, synthesis, secretion, catabolism, protein binding, and target tissue response) and may alter the therapeutic response to Levothyroxine Sodium capsules (7 )
Drugs Known to Affect Thyroid Hormone Pharmacokinetics
Many drugs can exert effects thyroid hormone pharmacokinetics (e.g., absorption, synthesis, secretion, catabolism, protein binding, and target tissue response) and may alter the therapeutic response to levothyroxine sodium capsules (see Tables 2 to 5 below).
| Potential impact: Concurrent use may reduce the efficacy of levothyroxine sodium capsules by binding and delaying or preventing absorption, potentially resulting in hypothyroidism | |
| Drug or Drug Class | Effect |
| Calcium Carbonate Ferrous Sulfate | Calcium carbonate may form an insoluble chelate with levothyroxine, and ferrous sulfate likely forms a ferric-thyroxine complex. Administer levothyroxine sodium capsules at least 4 hours apart from these agents. |
| Orlistat | Monitor patients treated concomitantly with orlistat and levothyroxine sodium capsules for changes in thyroid function. |
| Bile Acid Sequestrants -Colesevelam -Cholestyramine -Colestipol Ion Exchange Resins -Kayexalate -Sevelamer | Bile acid sequestrants and ion exchange resins are known to decrease levothyroxine absorption. Administer levothyroxine sodium capsules at least 4 hours prior to these drugs or monitor thyrotropin (TSH) levels. |
| Other drugs: Proton Pump Inhibitors Sucralfate Antacids - Aluminum & Magnesium Hydroxides - Simethicone | Gastric acidity is an essential requirement for adequate absorption of levothyroxine. Sucralfate, antacids and proton pump inhibitors may cause hypochlorhydria, affect intragastric pH, and reduce levothyroxine absorption. Monitor patients appropriately |
| Drug or Drug Class | Effect |
|---|---|
| Clofibrate Estrogen-containing oral contraceptives Estrogens (oral) Heroin / Methadone 5-Fluorouracil Mitotane Tamoxifen | These drugs may increase serum thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) concentration. |
| Androgens / Anabolic Steroids Asparaginase Glucocorticoids Slow-Release Nicotinic Acid | These drugs may decrease serum TBG concentration. |
| Potential impact (below) : Administration of these agents with levothyroxine sodium capsules results in an initial transient increase in FT4. Continued administration results in a decrease in serum T4 and normal FT4 and TSH concentrations. | |
| Salicylates (> 2 g/day) | Salicylates inhibit binding of T4 and T3 to TBG and transthyretin. An initial increase in serum FT4 is followed by return of FT4 to normal levels with sustained therapeutic serum salicylate concentrations, although total T4 levels may decrease by as much as 30%. |
| Other drugs: Carbamazepine Furosemide (> 80 mg IV) Heparin Hydantoins Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs - Fenamates | These drugs may cause protein-binding site displacement . Furosemide has been shown to inhibit the protein binding of T4 to TBG and albumin, causing an increased free-T4 fraction in serum. Furosemide competes for T4-binding sites on TBG, prealbumin, and albumin, so that a single high dose can acutely lower the total T4 level. Phenytoin and carbamazepine reduce serum protein binding of levothyroxine, and total and free-T4 may be reduced by 20% to 40%, but most patients have normal serum TSH levels and are clinically euthyroid. Closely monitor thyroid hormone parameters. |
| Potential impact: Stimulation of hepatic microsomal drug-metabolizing enzyme activity may cause increased hepatic degradation of levothyroxine, resulting in increased levothyroxine sodium capsules requirements. | |
| Drug or Drug Class | Effect |
| Phenobarbital Rifampin | Phenobarbital has been shown to reduce the response to thyroxine. Phenobarbital increases L-thyroxine metabolism by inducing uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) and leads to a lower T4 serum levels. Changes in thyroid status may occur if barbiturates are added or withdrawn from patients being treated for hypothyroidism. Rifampin has been shown to accelerate the metabolism of levothyroxine. |
| Potential impact: Administration of these enzyme inhibitors decreases the peripheral conversion of T4 to T3, leading to decreased T3 levels. However, serum T4 levels are usually normal but may occasionally be slightly increased. | |
| Drug or Drug Class | Effect |
| Beta-adrenergic antagonists (e.g., Propranolol > 160 mg/day) | In patients treated with large doses of propranolol (> 160 mg/day), T3 and T4 levels change, TSH levels remain normal, and patients are clinically euthyroid. Actions of particular beta-adrenergic antagonists may be impaired when the hypothyroid patient is converted to the euthyroid state. |
| Glucocorticoids (e.g., Dexamethasone ≥ 4 mg/day) | Short-term administration of large doses of glucocorticoids may decrease serum T3 concentrations by 30% with minimal change in serum T4 levels. However, long-term glucocorticoid therapy may result in slightly decreased T3 and T4 levels due to decreased TBG production (see Table 3 above). |
| Other: Amiodarone | Amiodarone inhibits peripheral conversion of levothyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) and may cause isolated biochemical changes (increase in serum free-T4, and decrease or normal free-T3) in clinically euthyroid patients. |
Antidiabetic Therapy
Addition of levothyroxine sodium capsules therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus may worsen glycemic control and result in increased antidiabetic agent or insulin requirements. Careful monitor glycemic control, especially when thyroid therapy is started, changed, or discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] .
Oral Anticoagulants
Levothyroxine sodium capsules increase the response to oral anticoagulant therapy. Therefore, a decrease in the dose of anticoagulant may be warranted with correction of the hypothyroid state or when the levothyroxine sodium capsules dose is increased. Closely monitor coagulation tests to permit appropriate and timely dosage adjustments.
Digitalis Glycosides
Levothyroxine sodium capsules may reduce the therapeutic effects of digitalis glycosides. Serum digitalis glycoside levels may decrease when a hypothyroid patient becomes euthyroid, necessitating an increase in the dose of digitalis glycosides.
Antidepressant Therapy
Concurrent use of tricyclic (e.g., Amitriptyline) or tetracyclic (e.g., Maprotiline) antidepressants and levothyroxine sodium capsules may increase the therapeutic and toxic effects of both drugs, possibly due to increased receptor sensitivity to catecholamines. Toxic effects may include increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias and central nervous system stimulation. Levothyroxine sodium capsules may accelerate the onset of action of tricyclics. Administration of sertraline in patients stabilized on levothyroxine sodium capsules may result in increased levothyroxine sodium capsules requirements.
Ketamine
Concurrent use of ketamine and levothyroxine sodium capsules may produce marked hypertension and tachycardia. Closely monitor blood pressure and heart rate in these patients.
Sympathomimetics
Concurrent use of sympathomimetics and levothyroxine sodium capsules may increase the effects of sympathomimetics or thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones may increase the risk of coronary insufficiency when sympathomimetic agents are administered to patients with coronary artery disease.
Tyrosine-Kinase Inhibitors
Concurrent use of tyrosine-kinase inhibitors such as imatinib may cause hypothyroidism. Closely monitor TSH levels in such patients.
Drug-Food Interactions
Consumption of certain foods may affect levothyroxine sodium capsules absorption thereby necessitating adjustments in dosing [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . Soybean flour (infant formula), cottonseed meal, walnuts, and dietary fiber may bind and decrease the absorption of levothyroxine sodium capsules from the GI tract. Grapefruit juice may delay the absorption of levothyroxine and reduce its bioavailability.
Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions
Consider changes in TBG concentration when interpreting T4 and T3 values. Measure and evaluate unbound (free) hormone and/or determine the free T4 index (FT4I) in this circumstance. Pregnancy, infectious hepatitis, estrogens, estrogen-containing oral contraceptives, and acute intermittent porphyria increase TBG concentrations. Nephrosis, severe hypoproteinemia, severe liver disease, acromegaly, androgens and corticosteroids decrease TBG concentration. Familial hyper- or hypo-thyroxine binding globulinemias have been described, with the incidence of TBG deficiency approximating 1 in 9000.
DESCRIPTION
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules for oral use contain synthetic L-3,3',5,5'-tetraiodothyronine sodium salt [levothyroxine (T 4 ) sodium]. Synthetic T4 is chemically identical to that produced in the human thyroid gland. Levothyroxine (T4) sodium has an empirical formula of C 15 H 10 I 4 NNaO 4 ∙ x H 2 O (where x = 5), molecular weight of 798.86 g/mol (anhydrous), and structural formula as shown:
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are amber-colored, round/biconvex capsules containing a viscous amber-colored liquid.
The inactive ingredients in Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are gelatin, glycerin and water.
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Mechanism of Action
Thyroid hormones exert their physiologic actions through control of DNA transcription and protein synthesis. Triiodothyronine (T3) and L-thyroxine (T4) diffuse into the cell nucleus and bind to thyroid receptor proteins attached to DNA. This hormone nuclear receptor complex activates gene transcription and synthesis of messenger RNA and cytoplasmic proteins.
The physiological actions of thyroid hormones are produced predominantly by T3, the majority of which (approximately 80%) is derived from T4 by deiodination in peripheral tissues.
Pharmacodynamics
Oral levothyroxine sodium is a synthetic T4 hormone that exerts the same physiologic effect as endogenous T4, thereby maintaining normal T4 levels when a deficiency is present.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Absorption of orally administered T 4 from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract ranges from 40% to 80%. The majority of the levothyroxine dose is absorbed from the jejunum and upper ileum. T4 absorption is increased by fasting, and decreased in malabsorption syndromes and by certain foods such as soybeans. Dietary fiber decreases the bioavailability of T4. Absorption may also decrease with age. In addition, many drugs and foods affect T4 absorption. [see Drug Interactions (7) ]
Distribution
Circulating thyroid hormones are greater than 99% bound to plasma proteins, including thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TBPA), and thyroxine-binding albumin (TBA), whose capacities and affinities vary for each hormone. The higher affinity of both TBG and TBPA for T4 partially explains the higher serum levels, slower metabolic clearance, and longer half-life of T4 compared to T3. Protein-bound thyroid hormones exist in reverse equilibrium with small amounts of free hormone. Only unbound hormone is metabolically active. Many drugs and physiologic conditions affect the binding of thyroid hormones to serum proteins [see Drug Interactions (7) ]. Thyroid hormones do not readily cross the placental barrier [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ].
Elimination
Metabolism
T4 is slowly eliminated (see Table 6 ) . The major pathway of thyroid hormone metabolism is through sequential deiodination. Approximately 80% of circulating T3 is derived from peripheral T4 by monodeiodination. The liver is the major site of degradation for both T4 and T3, with T4 deiodination also occurring at a number of additional sites, including the kidney and other tissues. Approximately 80% of the daily dose of T4 is deiodinated to yield equal amounts of T3 and reverse T3 (rT3). T3 and rT3 are further deiodinated to diiodothyronine. Thyroid hormones are also metabolized via conjugation with glucuronides and sulfates and excreted directly into the bile and gut where they undergo enterohepatic recirculation.
Excretion
Thyroid hormones are primarily eliminated by the kidneys. A portion of the conjugated hormone reaches the colon unchanged and is eliminated in the feces. Approximately 20% of T4 is eliminated in the stool. Urinary excretion of T4 decreases with age.
| Hormone | Ratio in Thyroglobulin | Biologic Potency | Half-Life (Days) | Protein Binding (%) Includes TBG, TBPA and TBA. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levothyroxine (T4) | 10 – 20 | 1 | 6 – 7 3 – 4 days in hyperthyroidism, 9 – 10 days in hypothyroidism. | 99.96 |
| Liothyronine (T3) | 1 | 4 | ≤ 2 | 99.5 |
NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Animal studies have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential, mutagenic potential or effects on fertility of levothyroxine sodium.
HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Levothyroxine Sodium capsules should be protected from heat, light and moisture.
Do not separate the individual cavities containing the drug from the intact blister as important information may be lost (i.e., manufacturer/distributor names, distributor contact phone number, lot number, and expiration date), and do not remove the individual capsules from blister packaging until ready to use.
How Supplied
Levothyroxine Sodium capsules are amber-colored, round/biconvex capsules, imprinted with a dosage strength specific letter on one side and containing a viscous amber-colored liquid. They are supplied as follows:
| Strength (mcg) | Color Shown on box and blister packing, not on individual capsules. | Imprint Code | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Green | A | 82347-0005-4 |
| 25 | Orange | E | 82347-0010-4 |
| 50 | White | G | 82347-0015-4 |
| 75 | Purple | H | 82347-0020-4 |
| 88 | Olive | J | 82347-0025-4 |
| 100 | Yellow | K | 82347-0030-4 |
| 112 | Rose | M | 82347-0035-4 |
| 125 | Brown | N | 82347-0040-4 |
| 137 | Turquoise | P | 82347-0045-4 |
| 150 | Blue | S | 82347-0050-4 |
| 175 | Lilac | U | 82347-0055-4 |
| 200 | Pink | Y | 82347-0060-4 |
The dosage strength on each box is clearly identified in several locations, and is associated with a distinct color. The color of the circles on the blister is the same color as on the box. Each blister pack contains 10 capsules placed in individual cavities labeled with the dosage strength and the product name (Levothyroxine Sodium capsules).
Storage and Handling
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Levothyroxine Sodium capsules should be protected from heat, light and moisture.
Do not separate the individual cavities containing the drug from the intact blister as important information may be lost (i.e., manufacturer/distributor names, distributor contact phone number, lot number, and expiration date), and do not remove the individual capsules from blister packaging until ready to use.
Mechanism of Action
Thyroid hormones exert their physiologic actions through control of DNA transcription and protein synthesis. Triiodothyronine (T3) and L-thyroxine (T4) diffuse into the cell nucleus and bind to thyroid receptor proteins attached to DNA. This hormone nuclear receptor complex activates gene transcription and synthesis of messenger RNA and cytoplasmic proteins.
The physiological actions of thyroid hormones are produced predominantly by T3, the majority of which (approximately 80%) is derived from T4 by deiodination in peripheral tissues.
