Adult Initially 50-100 mcg/day, increased by 50 mcg every 3-4 wk up to max of 150-300 mcg/day, until normal metabolism is maintained. Patient >50 yr Initially no more than 50 mcg/day, >50 yr w/ heart disease 25 mcg/day or 50 mcg every other day. May be increased by 25 mcg/day every 4 wk. Childn Congenital hypothyroidism in infant Initially 10-15 mcg/kg/day for the 1st 3 mth. Adjust dose depending on response to treatment. Acquired hypothyroidism Initially 12.5-50 mcg/day, increase dose gradually every 2-4 wk depending on response to treatment. Juvenile myxoedema Initially 25 mcg/day, increased by 25 mcg every 2-4 wk. Slightly reduce dose if mild toxic symptoms appear. In childn >1 yr, initially 2.5-5 mcg/kg/day.
Heart problems or recent heart attack; HTN; severe long-term hypothyroidism, underactive adrenal gland (eg, panhypopituitarism), diabetes. Increased bone resorption thereby decreased bone mineral density w/ long-term therapy in women. Intolerance to some sugars. Pregnancy & lactation. Elderly.
Sign Out
