University:
Harvard University
Course:
2115 | Nursing
Academic year:

2020
Views:

329

Pages:

1
Author:

Kaiden Murphy

Levothyroxine MEDICATION __________________________________________________________________________ REVIEW MODULE CHAPTER ___________ Thyroid Hormone CATEGORY CLASS ______________________________________________________________________ PURPOSE OF MEDICATION Expected Pharmacological Action Thyroid hormones are a synthetic form of thyroxine, that increase metabolic rate, protein synthesis, cardiac output, renal perfusion, oxygen use, body temperature, blood volume, and growth processes. Therapeutic Use -Thyroid hormone replacement is used for treatment of hypothyroidism (all ages, all forms). -Thyroid hormones are used for the emergency treatment of myxedema coma (IV route) Complications Overmedication can result in indications of hyperthyroidism (anxiety, tachycardia, palpitations, altered appetite, abdominal cramping, heat intolerance, fever, diaphoresis, weight loss, menstrual irregularities) Medication Administration oral, IV (myxedema coma) Contraindications/Precautions Use cautiously in pregnancy and lactation. Use is contraindicated for clients who have thyrotoxicosis. Because of cardiac stimulant effects, use is contraindicated following a MI. Use cautiously in clients who have cardiovascular problems (hypertension, angina pectoris, ischemic heart disease) because of cardiac stimulant effects, and in older adults. Thyroid hormone replacement is not for use in the treatment of obesity Interactions Binding agents (cholestyramine, antacids, iron and calcium supplements) and sucralfate (Carafate) reduce levothyroxine absorption with concurrent use. Many antiseizure and antidepressant medications, including carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital, and sertraline (Zoloft), can increase levothyroxine metabolism. Levothyroxine can increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin (Coumadin) by breaking down vitamin K. Nursing Interventions -Obtain the client’s baseline vital signs, weight, and height, and monitor periodically throughout treatment. -Monitor and report signs of cardiac excitability (angina, chest pain, palpitations, dysrhythmias). -Daily therapy begins with a low dose that increases gradually over several weeks. Monitor the client’s T4 and TSH levels Client Education Evaluation of Medication Effectiveness Depending on therapeutic intent, evidence of effectiveness may include: -Decreased TSH levels. -T4 levels within expected reference range. -Absence of hypothyroidism clinical manifestations (depression, weight gain, bradycardia, anorexia, cold intolerance, dry skin, menorrhagia). -Instruct clients to take daily on an empty stomach (before breakfast daily). -Provide client education regarding the importance of lifelong replacement (even after improvement of symptoms). Advise clients not to discontinue the medication without checking with the provider. -Instruct clients to check with the provider before switching to another brand of levothyroxine because some concerns regarding interchangeability of brands has been raised, and dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Levothyroxine

Related Documents

Recommended Documents

Description

Related Documents

Want to Download This Document?

Free up your schedule!

Take 5 seconds to unlock