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Is Levothyroxine The Same As Synthroid?
Question: IS LEVOTHYROXINE THE SAME AS SYNTHROID???
Brief Answer:
Generic
Detailed Answer:
Levo thyroxine is a generic version of Synthroid. So although it is not exactly the same as brand synthroid, it is considered more or less equivalent.
There has been ongoing debate over this nationwide for some years now as to whether pharmacies can automatically substitute synthroid with generic levo thyroxine, even without needing the prescribing doctor's authorization to do so.
Various states have different rules. Often physicians prescribing Synthroid have to write 'DAW' ie Dispense As Written if they wish to ensure patient is given Synthroid specifically.
The challenge with generic levo thyroxine is that it may not be made by the same manufacturer each time. For example, one batch may come from a given source but if the contract is given to another company then the percentage of active ingredient ie levo thyroxine is not exactly the same every time.
With hormone treatment involving levo thyroxine it is deal to retain the same amount of active hormone being consumed on a regular basis for stable levels in the blood, for best results.
Generic
Detailed Answer:
Levo thyroxine is a generic version of Synthroid. So although it is not exactly the same as brand synthroid, it is considered more or less equivalent.
There has been ongoing debate over this nationwide for some years now as to whether pharmacies can automatically substitute synthroid with generic levo thyroxine, even without needing the prescribing doctor's authorization to do so.
Various states have different rules. Often physicians prescribing Synthroid have to write 'DAW' ie Dispense As Written if they wish to ensure patient is given Synthroid specifically.
The challenge with generic levo thyroxine is that it may not be made by the same manufacturer each time. For example, one batch may come from a given source but if the contract is given to another company then the percentage of active ingredient ie levo thyroxine is not exactly the same every time.
With hormone treatment involving levo thyroxine it is deal to retain the same amount of active hormone being consumed on a regular basis for stable levels in the blood, for best results.
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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