Thyroid preparation overdose Health Article

Definition

Thyroid preparations are medications used to treat thyroid gland disorders. Overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of such medications.

Poisonous Ingredient

• Levothyroxine
• Liothyronine
• Liotrix
• Thyroid

Where Found

• Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levothroid)
• Liothyronine (Cytomel)
• Liotrix (Thyrolar, Euthroid)
• Other thyroid medication

Symptoms

• Changes in menstrual pattern
• Chest pain
• Convulsions
• Dilated pupils
• Excessive sweating
• Fever
• Headache
• High blood pressure
• Irritability
• Nausea and vomiting
• Nervousness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shock
• Skin flushing

Home Treatment

Seek immediate medical help. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• The name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
• When it was swallowed
• The amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to expect at the emergency room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:

• Activated charcoal
• Blood tests to check thyroid level
• EKG
• Laxative

Expectations (prognosis)

Patients who receive quick treatment make a good recovery. Heart-related complications may lead to death.

Symptoms may not be seen until a week after the overdose. They may be treated successfully with several medications.