Conclusions and Relevance Initiation of generic vs brand-name levothyroxine formulations was associated with similar rates of normal and stable thyrotropin levels. These results suggest that generic levothyroxine as initial therapy for mild thyroid dysfunction is as effective as brand-name levothyroxine.

Does generic Synthroid work as well as Synthroid?

Synthroid and levothyroxine dosage

The dosing for both brand name and generic forms of thyroid hormone replacement is the same. Overall, the goal is to effectively replace your body's thyroid hormone to get your levels back to normal. Most people use the tablet or capsule form of the medications.

Is there a difference between Synthroid and generic levothyroxine?

Generic levothyroxine may differ slightly from Synthroid in terms of how well it's absorbed. That's why it's preferable to stick with either one if possible. Both the American Thyroid Association and the Endocrine Society recommend that patients remain on Synthroid if that's what was initially prescribed.

Are all brands of levothyroxine the same?

There are different manufacturers that make levothyroxine. When levothyroxine is branded, for example Synthroid™, Levoxyl™ and Tirosint™ in the United States, Thyrax in Europe, every prescription filled is for that same brand.

Can you switch from Synthroid to generic?

You should not change from one brand of thyroid medication to another, from your brand of thyroid medication to a generic product, or from one generic product to another without first checking with your doctor.

Dr. Gregory Davis - Thyroid Medication: Synthroid vs Generic

Is there a difference between generic and brand-name Synthroid?

Summary. Most brand-name drugs do not differ that much from their generic counterparts, so switching between the two is not an issue. Levothyroxine, however, is an exception.

Is brand-name thyroid medication better than generic?

Conclusions and Relevance. Initiation of generic vs brand-name levothyroxine formulations was associated with similar rates of normal and stable thyrotropin levels. These results suggest that generic levothyroxine as initial therapy for mild thyroid dysfunction is as effective as brand-name levothyroxine.

What are the side effects of generic Synthroid?

Common side effects may include:

• chest pain, irregular heartbeats;
• shortness of breath;
• headache, leg cramps, muscle pain or weakness;
• tremors, feeling nervous or irritable, trouble sleeping;
• increased appetite;
• feeling hot;
• weight loss;
• changes in your menstrual periods;

Which is the best thyroid medication?

For most people with hypothyroidism, levothyroxine is the best treatment option. If levothyroxine isn't working or if someone cannot take it, liothyronine would be next in line. Natural thyroid medications — and alternative therapies like iodine — aren't recommended for use.

Which levothyroxine is best?

The Synthroid brand of levothyroxine improved thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels by a significantly greater margin compared with generic versions of the synthetic T4 (LT4) hormones for patients with hypothyroidism.

Is there a problem with generic Synthroid?

It's Equally Safe. Generic levothyroxine is just as safe as the brand names—in the United States, these include Synthroid, Levoxyl, Unithroid, and Tirosint—because it has the same FDA-approved active ingredient (levothyroxine).

Can I substitute levothyroxine for Synthroid?

That's because some generics come in the same shape and colors as Synthroid. The Food and Drug Administration has determined that certain levothyroxine products are interchangeable and can be substituted at the pharmacy.

What happens when you switch thyroid medication?

Switching from a brand-name to generic thyroid hormone, or vice-versa, could affect your TSH levels—even if the dose is the same. ⁷ The same goes for switching between brands of levothyroxine (for example, switching from Synthroid to Levoxyl or vice-versa).

Is Synthroid stronger than generic?

Conclusions and Relevance Initiation of generic vs brand-name levothyroxine formulations was associated with similar rates of normal and stable thyrotropin levels. These results suggest that generic levothyroxine as initial therapy for mild thyroid dysfunction is as effective as brand-name levothyroxine.

What is the cost difference between Synthroid and levothyroxine?

Generic levothyroxine is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans, but some pharmacy coupons or cash prices may be lower. The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of generic Synthroid is around $4.00, 74% off the average retail price of $15.77. Compare thyroxines.

Does caffeine interfere with Synthroid?

8) You take your Synthroid or levothyroxine with coffee

In studies, coffee reduced the body's absorption of thyroid medications by about 30%. That's why experts recommend that you wait at least 60 minutes after drinking coffee to take your thyroid replacement medication.

Is there a substitute for Synthroid?

Alternatives for hypothyroidism or TSH suppression

levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Unithroid, Tirosint) liothyronine (Cytomel) desiccated thyroid (Armour Thyroid)

Is NP thyroid better than Synthroid?

NP Thyroid has an average rating of 3.4 out of 10 from a total of 222 ratings on Drugs.com. 22% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 70% reported a negative effect. Synthroid has an average rating of 6.1 out of 10 from a total of 179 ratings on Drugs.com.

Is there a natural substitute for Synthroid?

Natural alternatives to levothyroxine. The natural alternative to levothyroxine is a natural desiccated thyroid extract from animal sources. Armour Thyroid contains a natural form of thyroid hormone that comes directly from the thyroid gland of pigs.

Is it better to take Synthroid at night or in the morning?

There is consensus that levothyroxine should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. A pilot study showed that levothyroxine intake at bedtime significantly decreased thyrotropin levels and increased free thyroxine and total triiodothyronine levels.

What foods should be avoided when taking Synthroid?

Foods containing soy and cottonseed meal can make Synthroid less effective. Walnuts, grapefruit juice, and dietary fiber can also make Synthroid less effective. If you eat any of these on a regular basis, check with your doctor. He or she may need to adjust your dose of Synthroid.

Why do you have to drink a full glass of water with levothyroxine?

The Levoxyl-branded tablet may rapidly swell and disintegrate, and cause choking or gagging if it becomes stuck in your throat. Take with a full glass of water, but talk with your doctor should you have difficulty swallowing it.

Why was levothyroxine taken off the market?

Westminster Pharmaceuticals, LLC. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine (Thyroid Tablets, USP) Due to Risk of Adulteration | FDA.

What are the long term side effects of taking Synthroid?

Long-term side effects of Synthroid can include osteoporosis and heart problems. Short-term side effects include a racing heartbeat, feeling hot all the time, headaches, feeling shaky or nervous, trouble sleeping, among others.

Is 75 mcg of levothyroxine a lot?

Adults usually start with a dose between 50 micrograms and 100 micrograms taken once a day. This may be increased gradually over a few weeks to between 100 micrograms and 200 micrograms taken once a day. Some people, such as over-50s or people with heart disease, may start on a lower dose.