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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Levothyroxine Cause Severe Leg Cramps?

I started taking Levothyroxine in Dec. 2013 (25 MCG). In Feb. 2014 it was increased to 50 MCG. About a week after starting at the higher dose I started experiencing severe leg cramps when I retired for the night. They are so bad that I can not lay on either side and am constantly jumping out of bed because of the cramping. Prior to taking this medication I had no problem with leg cramps. I stopped taking the medication 3 days ago and find the cramping is subsiding considerably.
Mon, 30 Jan 2017
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Orthopaedic Surgeon 's  Response
Hi i am Dr Ahmed Aly
thanks for using healthcaremagic site ,
I had gone through your question and understand your concerns ..

In my opinion yes i think its the cause of your severe leg cramps but indirectly as alot of studies say that it decreases the bone density and thus alters serum calcium and other minerals .
For now i suggest some lab investigation to diagnose mineral level in blood for proper evaluation and management , However, estrogen use appeared to negate the adverse effects of thyroid hormone on bone mineral density. I think you may need to decrease dosing or ask your endocrinologist for the best alternative for your case that suits your body requirements .

Please click THANK YOU and consider a 5 star rating with some positive feedback if the information was helpful. Hope the above information helps you,
Any further clarifications feel free to ask.
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Does Levothyroxine Cause Severe Leg Cramps?

Hi i am Dr Ahmed Aly thanks for using healthcaremagic site , I had gone through your question and understand your concerns .. In my opinion yes i think its the cause of your severe leg cramps but indirectly as alot of studies say that it decreases the bone density and thus alters serum calcium and other minerals . For now i suggest some lab investigation to diagnose mineral level in blood for proper evaluation and management , However, estrogen use appeared to negate the adverse effects of thyroid hormone on bone mineral density. I think you may need to decrease dosing or ask your endocrinologist for the best alternative for your case that suits your body requirements . Please click THANK YOU and consider a 5 star rating with some positive feedback if the information was helpful. Hope the above information helps you, Any further clarifications feel free to ask.