A client has been prescribed levothyroxine (Levothroid). What medication information should the nurse provide?

Question

1. "It may take a few weeks for you to see the full benefits from this drug."
2. "Be sure to keep all of your follow-up appointments."
3. "Take this medication at whatever time you eat your evening meal."
4. "Do not start a fiber laxative without first discussing it with your health care team."
5. "Take your calcium supplement at least 4 hours after taking this drug."

Answer 1

1,2,4,5
Rationale 1: When given orally, it may take up to 3 weeks for the full effect of the drug to be realized.
Rationale 2: Serum TSH levels will be drawn frequently as the client begins this therapy and to monitor its effectiveness as therapy continues.
Rationale 3: The medication should be taken at the same time every day, not at variable meal times. It should be taken in the morning to decrease insomnia.
Rationale 4: Dietary fiber may bind to and decrease the absorption of levothyroxine.
Rationale 5: Calcium and iron supplements should be taken at least 4 hours after taking levothyroxine to prevent interference with drug absorption.
Global Rationale: When given orally, it may take up to 3 weeks for the full effect of the drug to be realized. Serum TSH levels will be drawn frequently as the client begins this therapy and to monitor its effectiveness as therapy continues. Dietary fiber may bind to and decrease the absorption of levothyroxine. Calcium and iron supplements should be taken at least 4 hours after taking levothyroxine to prevent interference with drug absorption. The medication should be taken at the same time every day, not at variable meal times. It should be taken in the morning to decrease insomnia.