A practical guide to starting levothyroxine therapy Calculate full replacement dose: 1.6 mcg/kg/day Young, otherwise healthy patient: • Initiate therapy at full weight-based dose Older patient OR known CAD OR shorter anticipated duration of therapy • Start at 25-50 mcg/day OR 2/3-3/4 anticipated dose Counsel patients to take their pill on an empty stomach with water, 30-60 mins before breakfast AVOID proximity to PO iron, calcium carbonate, bile acid resins #levothyroxine #synthroid #therapy #initiation #starting #management #endocrinology #pharmacology #hypothyroidism
