Is Levothyroxine used to treat hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism?
Levothyroxine sodium tablets, also known as Euthyrox, are generally used to treat hypothyroidism, while hyperthyroidism typically refers to an overactive thyroid. Under normal circumstances, levothyroxine sodium is a medication used for treating hypothyroidism. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine sodium tablets can supplement the required thyroid hormones in the body and maintain normal metabolic functions. After administration, it can improve symptoms caused by slowed metabolism, such as fatigue, cold intolerance, and weight gain, gradually restoring thyroid function to normal.
Hyperthyroidism is caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones. Its treatment requires suppressing hormone synthesis or reducing secretion. Levothyroxine sodium is a hormone-replacement medication; if used for treating hyperthyroidism, it would exacerbate the condition of excessive hormones, leading to a worsening of the disease. Therefore, it is not used for treating this condition.
When taking levothyroxine sodium tablets, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions, regularly monitor thyroid function, adjust the dosage according to test results, and avoid altering the dosage without authorization.