Hypothyroidism (Under active Thyroid) is more common in women than men, with estimates that 10 times more women than men are affected. Hypothyroidism is usually gradually progressive with symptoms increasing as thyroid function deteriorates.

Hashimoto’s Disease – Thyroid Auto-immune Disease, usually causes hypothyroid symptoms, however it is possible for Hashimoto symptoms to swing between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Treatment for hypothyroidism is Thyroid Replacement Hormone therapy – Levothyroxine.

Symptoms can also overlap with many other medical conditions and can remain undiagnosed until appropriate testing is performed to make a diagnosis. Hypothyroidism is usually due to Hashimoto's Disease, which is an autoimmune thyroid disease and caused from a generic predisposition – hereditary.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone replacement, with synthetic Levothyroxine. There are several brands of Levothyroxine available in Australia. Some brands must be kept refrigerated 24/7, whilst others must be kept below 25 degrees Celsius to ensure they do not spoil and become inactive.

The original brand you were prescribed should not be changed. Changing brands can affect your thyroid function blood results and may also cause symptoms and side effects.

Please read Patients Medication Choice of Brand.

If your doctor did decide to change your brand to Eltroxin, which is 10% less active ingredient, dose adjustment may be necessary and regular thyroid function pathology tests will be needed to ensure your dose is adequate.

Choice of brand is individual and should be decided after discussion with your thyroid treating doctor.

HYPOTHYROID SYMPTOMS VARY FROM PATIENT TO PATIENT AND MAY INCLUDE:

• Lethargy/Fatigue
• Weight Gain and Fluid Retention
• Depression/Low Mood
• Sleep Disturbance
• Fertility Problems
• Thinning of Hair and Eyebrows
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Breathlessness
• Dry Skin
• Constipation
• Poor Concentration
• Muscle Pain and Weakness
• Enlarged Thyroid (Goitre)
• Low Libido/ Decreased Fertility
• Menstrual Changes
• For pregnant women, there is an increased risk of miscarriage and multiple obstetric complications.