Difference between levothyroxine sodium and synthroid

If you’re searching for the ideal thyroid medication, understanding the variance between levothyroxine sodium and Synthroid is crucial. Both medications are commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism and have distinct differences that can affect your treatment. Let’s explore the unique qualities of each medication and help you make an informed choice for your thyroid health.

Table of Contents

Main Differences

Ingredients Comparison: Levothyroxine Sodium and Synthroid both contain the active ingredient levothyroxine, which is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. However, the inactive ingredients may vary between the two medications. Synthroid may contain ingredients such as acacia, lactose, magnesium stearate, and cornstarch, while the inactive ingredients in generic levothyroxine sodium tablets can vary depending on the manufacturer.

It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure that you are aware of all ingredients in your medication and any potential allergens that may be present.

Ingredients Comparison

The active ingredient in both levothyroxine sodium and Synthroid is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). Levothyroxine is identical to the hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is used to treat hypothyroidism.

Levothyroxine Sodium

Levothyroxine sodium is the generic form of the medication, available under various brand names. It contains the synthetic hormone levothyroxine and is used to replace or supplement the natural thyroid hormone in the body.

Synthroid

Synthroid is a brand name for levothyroxine sodium, manufactured by AbbVie. It is a widely recognized and trusted brand of levothyroxine medication commonly prescribed for hypothyroidism.

Effectiveness

When it comes to effectiveness, both levothyroxine sodium and Synthroid are used to treat hypothyroidism, but they may have slightly different impacts on individuals. Levothyroxine sodium is a generic medication that contains the active ingredient levothyroxine, while Synthroid is a brand-name drug that also contains levothyroxine but may have different inactive ingredients.

Levothyroxine Sodium: Some individuals may find that generic levothyroxine sodium works just as effectively as brand-name Synthroid in managing their hypothyroidism symptoms. However, due to variations in inactive ingredients, some individuals may experience differences in how well their body absorbs and responds to the medication.

Synthroid: Synthroid is a widely recognized brand of levothyroxine that has been trusted for years by healthcare providers. Some individuals may prefer Synthroid due to its reputation and consistency in providing the desired therapeutic effects.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of levothyroxine sodium versus Synthroid may vary from person to person, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which medication is best suited for your individual needs.

Side Effects

When comparing levothyroxine sodium and Synthroid, it is essential to consider the potential side effects associated with each medication. Both medications can cause similar side effects, but some differences exist.

Levothyroxine Sodium	Synthroid
Common side effects include hair loss, headache, weight changes, and nervousness.	Common side effects include hair loss, headache, weight changes, and nervousness.
Rare side effects may include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and allergic reactions.	Rare side effects may include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and allergic reactions.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider if any unusual side effects occur.	It is important to consult a healthcare provider if any unusual side effects occur.