Side Effects Of Too Much Levoxyl

Levothyroxine sodium is a prescription drug indicated for hormone replacement due to a low-functioning thyroid gland. It is also indicated for other less common medical conditions. Also called T4, this synthetic hormone is sometimes abused as a weight-loss aid, which can lead to life-threatening overdose. When prescribed therapeutically, it can be difficult to achieve the right dosage for the individual and this can lead to therapeutic overdosage. It is important to know the signs of overdose and to notify your physician if symptoms are noted.

Nervousness

Taking too much levothyroxine can cause a feeling of nervousness, accompanied by hand tremors and difficulty falling asleep. It may feel as though you cannot be still and you may become moody and irritable. You may feel anxious and unable to relax regardless of what you do. Your muscles may seem weak. A headache may accompany these other symptoms. Eventually, you may feel fatigued as your body faces exhaustion from a long period of drug overdose.

Heart Rate Changes

An overdose of levothyroxine can give you the feeling your heart is pounding in your chest. It may feel like it is beating too fast or too strongly. Your heart can get out of rhythm and your blood pressure can become elevated. Heart failure can ensue if the hormone level remains elevated. Chest pain can also occur, which can lead to a heart attack. Literature produced by one of the drug manufacturers relates that your heart can stop from this medication, usually due to overdosage.

Nausea

An overdose of levothyroxine can leave you feeling nauseated and you may vomit. The 2010 Lippincott's Nursing Guide explains that you may gag when you try to eat or swallow, which can cause you to choke on your food. You may also develop stomach cramps and diarrhea that continue until your hormone level returns to normal.

Difficulty Breathing

You may develop difficulty breathing as a result of taking too much levothyroxine. You may feel as though you cannot catch your breath, raising your anxiety level.

Menstrual Problems

Menstrual irregularities can occur from taking too much levothyroxine. Your fertility can also be impaired, making it difficult or impossible to become pregnant.

Fever

You can develop a fever and feel ill. A significant intolerance to heat, whether indoors or outside, may be noted and you may sweat easily. Your skin may become flushed.