Can You Treat a UTI without Antibiotics? 7 Home Remedies

Bacteria cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), so doctors usually treat them with antibiotics. Other tips for managing UTIs include staying hydrated, urinating when necessary, and trying cranberry juice and probiotics.

People often want to know whether there are non-antibiotic treatments for UTIs. Below, we explore seven evidence-based home remedies for these infections.

• For reducing bacterial growth: UTIs and hydration
• For releasing toxins: UTIs and urination
• For a natural antibacterial drink: UTIs and cranberry juice
• For lowering pH: UTIs and probiotics
• For improving immune function: UTIs and vitamin C
• For improving wiping technique: UTIs and wiping
• For reducing microbial risks from sex: UTIs and sexual hygiene

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

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UTIs are among the most common bacterial infections in the United States. They are especially prevalent in females, with 2022 research showing that 40% of females will have one during their lifetimes. UTIs also tend to reoccur.

The symptoms can include:

• increased frequency and urgency of urination
• pain or burning when urinating
• a fever of below 101°F (38°C)
• pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen and groin
• change in the smell or color of urine
• cloudy, murky, or bloody urine

Learn more about the causes and symptoms of UTIs here.

Antibiotics are the standard treatment for UTIs because they kill the bacteria responsible for the infections.

Most UTIs develop when bacteria enter the urinary tract from outside the body. The species most likely to cause UTIs include:

• E. coli, which causes up to 90% of all bladder infections
• Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus
• Klebsiella pneumonia

Risks of using antibiotics

While antibiotics can usually treat UTIs quickly and effectively, they can cause allergic reactions and other adverse effects and complications.

For instance, older research suggests that about 22% of females receiving treatment for uncomplicated UTIs develop a Candida vaginal infection, a type of fungal infection.

Other potential side effects of antibiotics include:

• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhea
• a rash
• yeast infection

More severe risks of using antibiotics include the following.

Creating stronger strains of bacteria

Over time, some species of bacteria have become resistant to traditional antibiotics. According to some research, several species of E. coli, the primary cause of UTIs, show increasing drug resistance.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) writes that over- and misuse of antibiotics are causing increased resistance. People should only take antibiotics when necessary. They should not pressure a doctor into prescribing antibiotics if they are not necessary, such as for colds or flu.

If a doctor prescribes antibiotics, a person should take them exactly as they instruct.

Damaging helpful bacteria

The body contains populations of bacteria and other microorganisms that help with bodily functions. The CDC says that antibiotics may destroy some of these bacteria that help to protect people from infections.

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Research supports the use of some home remedies for UTIs. Some have been part of traditional medicine practices for thousands of years.

To treat a UTI without antibiotics, people can try these approaches.

1. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water can help prevent UTIs.

Water helps the urinary tract organs efficiently remove waste from the body while retaining vital nutrients and electrolytes.

Being hydrated also dilutes the urine and speeds its journey through the system, making it harder for bacteria to reach and infect the cells that line the urinary organs.

There is no set recommendation about how much water to drink daily — people’s needs differ. However, on average, adults should drink between six and eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.

2. Urinate when the need arises

Frequent urination can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.

It also reduces the time that bacteria in the urine are exposed to cells in the tract, limiting the risk of them attaching to and infecting these cells.

Urinating as soon as possible after the urge strikes can help prevent and treat UTIs.

3. Drink cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is one of the most well-established natural treatments for UTIs. People also use it to clear other infections and speed wound recovery.

2020 research into the effectiveness of cranberries for UTIs has found it to be effective. However, its effectiveness may vary from person to person, and more research is needed regarding which type of cranberry product and which dose is most effective.

The authors write that cranberries contain polyphenols that may prevent Escherichia coli bacteria from attaching to cells in the urinary tract.

Cranberries also contain antioxidants with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

There is no set guidance about how much cranberry juice to drink for a UTI. To prevent them, a person might drink around 400 milliliters of at least 25% cranberry juice every day. However, more research is necessary to determine how much cranberry juice to drink for a UTI.

4. Use probiotics

Beneficial bacteria, called probiotics, can help keep the urinary tract healthy and free from harmful bacteria.

In particular, probiotics in the Lactobacillus group may help treat and prevent UTIs, according to some older 2017 research. They may do this by:

• preventing harmful bacteria from attaching to urinary tract cells
• producing hydrogen peroxide, a strong antibacterial agent, in urine
• lowering urine’s pH, making conditions less favorable for bacteria

Also, people who take Lactobacillus supplements while they take antibiotics may have reduced antibiotic resistance.

Probiotics exist in several products that contain dairy, are fermented, or both, including:

• yogurts
• kefir
• some types of cheese
• sauerkraut

People can also take probiotic supplements, usually as capsules or a powder mixed into water or other beverages.

Learn more about the best sources of probiotics.

5. Get enough vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps improve immune system function.

It also reacts with nitrates in urine to form nitrogen oxides that can kill bacteria. It can lower the pH of urine, making it less likely that bacteria will survive.

However, little quality research indicates whether consuming more vitamin C can prevent or treat UTIs.

According to limited research, taking other supplements alongside vitamin C may maximize its benefits.

A 2021 review of natural remedies for UTIs stated that it could control the symptoms. Additionally, an older 2016 study examined data from 36 people with recurrent UTIs who took vitamin C, probiotics, and cranberry supplements three times a day for 20 days, then stopped for 10 days. They repeated this cycle for 3 months. The researchers concluded that this could be a safe, effective way to treat recurrent UTIs.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend that females ages 19 and over consume at least 75 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C daily, while males need around 90 mg daily. Adults who smoke should take an additional 35 mg of the vitamin each day.

6. Wipe from front to back

UTIs can develop when bacteria from the rectum or feces access the urethra. This small channel allows urine to flow out of the body.

Once bacteria are in the urethra, they can travel up into other urinary tract organs, where they can cause infections.

After urinating, wipe in a way that prevents bacteria from moving from the anus to the genitals. Use separate pieces of toilet paper to wipe the genitals and anus, for example.

7. Practice good sexual hygiene

Some sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria and other microbes into the urinary tract. Practicing good sexual hygiene can help to reduce this risk.

Examples of good sexual hygiene include:

• urinating before and immediately after sex
• using barrier contraception, such as a condom
• washing the genitals, especially the foreskin, before and after engaging in sexual acts or intercourse
• washing the genitals or changing condoms if switching from anal to vaginal sex
• ensuring that all sexual partners are aware of any current or past UTIs

UTI supplement options

Read our full Uqora review, which focuses on developing natural supplements for UTI prevention.

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The following table compares the UTI treatments mentioned in this article.

If a person suspects that they have a UTI, they should ask a healthcare professional for advice about the best way to treat it.

Antibiotics may not always be necessary, but it is still important to seek medical attention. This reduces the risk of developing a more severe infection that is harder to treat.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about treating UTIs.

Can I treat a UTI without antibiotics?

Yes, people can treat a UTI without antibiotics, and sometimes UTIs go away on their own. However, most at-home treatments are most effective at preventing UTIs and may not get rid of the bacteria causing a current UTI.

People can try drinking cranberry juice, taking vitamin C supplements, or trying probiotics to prevent and reduce the reoccurrence of UTIs. People should be aware that they may still have a UTI even if their symptoms go away.

A person should speak with a doctor about the best UTI treatment for them.

Can UTIs go away on their own?

Some uncomplicated UTIs go away on their own without the use of antibiotics.

However, keep in mind that there are risks to leaving UTIs untreated, such as the infection spreading to other parts of the body.

What happens if a UTI is left untreated?

Going without medical treatment does carry some risks. For example, nearly 25% of sepsis cases originate in the urogenital tract.

A randomized trial also showed that kidney infections, also known as pyelonephritis, may develop in about 2% of females with untreated UTIs.

Is it safe to treat UTIs without antibiotics?

Antibiotics are effective treatments for UTIs. Sometimes, the body can resolve minor, uncomplicated UTIs on its own, without antibiotics.

By some estimates, 25–42% of uncomplicated UTI infections clear on their own. In these cases, people can try a range of home remedies to speed up recovery.

Complicated UTIs require medical treatment. These are some factors that can make the infection complicated:

• changes in the urinary tract or organs, such as a swollen prostate or reduced flow of urine
• species of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics
• conditions that affect the immune system, such as HIV, cardiac disease, or lupus

Most people develop a UTI at some point, and these infections are more common in females.

Many UTIs go away on their own or with primary care. Researchers are increasingly looking for ways to treat and prevent UTIs without antibiotics.

Several long-standing home remedies may help prevent and treat these infections.

Anyone who may have a UTI should speak with a healthcare professional before trying to treat the infection themselves.

Essential oils for UTIs: Do they work?

While urinary tract infections are common, they can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. Antibiotics will treat the infections in most cases, but people who use them frequently may find that they cause unpleasant side effects, such as yeast infections.

Some essential oil advocates claim that certain oils can treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). A handful of preliminary studies suggest that essential oils can treat UTIs in some cases.

However, most doctors do not support this method of treatment, no major medical organization recommends it.

Use essential oils to treat a UTI only if a doctor has recommended it. Seek prompt medical treatment if symptoms do not improve.

Share on PinterestA person should not use an essential oil to treat a UTI unless it is recommended by their doctor.

UTIs develop when a person has an overgrowth of bacteria in their urinary tract, usually the bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli).

To heal a UTI, an essential oil has to kill this type of bacteria.

A person can use essential oils in a few ways. The oils can be spread through the air in a diffuser or applied directly to the skin, often after being mixed with a carrier oil. Some oils should not be applied directly to the skin or should only be used if diluted.

The following essential oils may help to fight the bacteria that causes UTIs:

1. Clove oil

Preliminary studies of clove oil’s antibacterial effects are promising. A 2016 study suggests that clove oil may help to kill E. coli, particularly when the bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics.

2.

Oregano oil

A 2012 study found that oregano oil could slow or stop the growth of E. coli and other bacteria. The bacteria strains used in the study resisted other treatments, which means oregano oil may also kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

A 2015 study that compared the effectiveness of oregano and lavender oils found that oregano had higher antimicrobial properties, suggesting that it can fight bacteria such as E. coli.

3. Cinnamon oil

Cinnamaldehyde, the chemical that gives cinnamon its flavor, may inhibit the growth of E. coli. The oil and the spice may also help to prevent UTIs from recurring. In addition to using cinnamon oil, a person might consider adding powdered cinnamon to their diet.

4. Lavender oil

Research suggests that lavender can kill bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other sources of infections. It may also act as an antioxidant.

Research published in 2015, for example, found that lavender and oregano oils, separately and in combination, may inhibit the growth of, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

5. Herbal oils

Authors of a 2013 study propose that some herbal oils are effective against E. coli and other bacteria. These include:

• sage oil
• basil oil
• rosemary oil
• marjoram oil
• hyssop oil

6. Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus oil may combat a wide range of bacteria. This makes it a good option when a person is unsure which type of bacteria is causing the infection.

A 2016 study identified compounds in eucalyptus oil that may explain its antibacterial properties. The researchers found that eucalyptus may kill or slow the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, Listeria innocua, and several other pathogens.

7. Cumin oil

Cumin oil may help to fight E. coli and some other bacterial infections. Another study from 2016 compared the effects of cumin oil to those of chamomile and onion oils. Cumin oil killed the most bacteria.

Cumin oil became even more effective when used in combination with some antibiotics, suggesting that it may be a complementary treatment.

8. Coriander oil

The same study found that coriander oil was best able to kill a combination of S. aureus and E. coli. Coriander oil also fought bacteria resistant to multiple drugs. Like cumin oil, coriander oil was more effective when paired with antibiotics.

Share on PinterestPeople who are pregnant or breast-feeding should consult a doctor or midwife before using essential oils.

The right way to use an essential oil depends on the type and concentration of the oil and an individual’s health. Consult a doctor or expert in essential oils before beginning home treatment for a UTI.

Do not drink essential oils. Many are toxic if ingested and can cause serious side effects.

Do not apply essential oils directly to the vagina, penis, urethra, or any exposed skin. They can irritate the skin and cause an intense burning sensation.

When applied topically, essential oils must be diluted in a carrier oil. The usual recipe is 3 to 5 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce of carrier oil. Carrier oils are nontoxic. Warmed coconut oil is a popular choice. However, a person may have an allergic reaction to carrier oils, especially those derived from nuts.

Diluted essential oils can be safely used in a warm compress on skin near the affected area. Also, adding a few drops of diluted oils to a bath may promote relaxation and provide temporary relief from pain.

Anyone concerned about the effects of oils on the skin should consider aromatherapy, as essential oils have fewer side effects when inhaled. It is best to use small amounts of high-quality essential oils diluted in a carrier oil.

Children are more vulnerable to negative side effects associated with essential oils. Use the oils on younger people only when following a doctor’s advice.

Some essential oils are dangerous for people who are pregnant or breast-feeding, and they should discuss any planned use with a doctor or midwife.

Share on PinterestThe sun can react with some essential oils and cause burns.

Proponents of essential oils often highlight the fact that they are “natural.” However, this does not mean that they are always safe.

Risks associated with essential oils include:

• Poisoning: Essential oils can be toxic when consumed and when they come into contact with the skin. For example, pennyroyal and camphor oils can be poisonous when consumed, and camphor oil may be dangerous when applied to the skin.
• Skin damage: Certain essential oils may damage the skin. One study, for instance, found that strong concentrations of lavender oil can be toxic to skin cells.
• Allergic reactions: Essential oils can trigger allergic reactions, especially in people with allergies, eczema, or sensitive skin.
• Chemical changes in the sun: Many oils derived from citrus fruits, cumin, and the Angelica genus of herbs can change in the sun, burning the skin or becoming toxic. Anyone planning to spend time in the sun or in tanning beds should not use these oils.
• Endocrine disruption: Certain essential oils, including lavender and tea tree oils, may act as endocrine disruptors. This means that they may interfere with hormones, potentially affecting fertility, the onset of puberty, and the development of breasts in boys and men.

Some oils can be harmful or even deadly for pets, especially cats. Keep essential oils stored in a safe cupboard, and ask a veterinarian before using them in a diffuser.

Some people may find that using essential oils can speed healing from a UTI or prevent an infection from coming back.

Like any remedy, certain doses may be safe, but it is crucial to speak with an expert and research the oil before using it.

People considering this type of remedy should be aware that improperly treated UTIs can lead to sepsis, a dangerous infection of the blood. The infection may spread to other areas of the body, including the kidneys. As the bacteria spread, the infection may be harder to treat.

People with severe or frequent UTIs, a history of kidney problems, or allergies should only use treatments recommended by doctors.

Eutiroks: instruction, price, analogues | Acino tablets

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications Euthyrox
• Application of Euthyrox
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Special instructions
• Interactions
• Overdose
• Storage conditions
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

pharmacodynamics. Levothyroxine is a synthetic levorotatory isomer of thyroxine, which is contained in the drug Euthyrox, has effects identical to those of a hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is converted to T ₃ (triiodothyronine) in peripheral organs as an endogenous hormone and affects T ₃ receptors. There is no difference between the functions of endogenous hormone and exogenous levothyroxine.

Pharmacokinetics. After oral administration, levothyroxine is almost completely absorbed in the upper small intestine. Depending on the galenic form of the drug, up to 80% of the dose taken is absorbed. C _max is reached after about 5-6 hours.

The clinical effect of the drug appears 3-5 days after ingestion. Levothyroxine quickly binds to specific blood transport proteins (up to 99.97%). The bond with proteins is not covalent, thus the bound hormone, which is in the blood plasma, is able to constantly and quickly exchange with fractions of the free hormone.

Due to its high level of protein binding, levothyroxine is not amenable to either hemodialysis or hemoperfusion.

T _½ is 7 days. With thyrotoxicosis, this period is reduced to 3-4 days, and with hypothyroidism it is extended to 9-10 days. The volume of distribution is 10-12 liters. The liver accumulates about ¹ / ₃ of the total amount of injected levothyroxine, quickly interacts with levothyroxine in the blood plasma. Thyroid hormones are metabolized primarily in the liver, kidneys, brain, and muscles. Metabolites are excreted in urine and feces. The total clearance of levothyroxine metabolism is about 1.2 liters of blood plasma per day.

Euthyrox 25–200 mcg

• Treatment of benign euthyroid goiter.
• Prevention of recurrence after surgical treatment of euthyroid goiter, depending on the level of hormones in the postoperative period.
• As replacement therapy for hypothyroidism.
• Suppressive therapy for thyroid cancer.

Euthyrox 25–100 mcg

• As an auxiliary drug in antithyroid therapy for hyperthyroidism.

Euthyrox 100/150/200 mcg

• As a diagnostic tool for the thyroid suppression test.

for the treatment of each patient, depending on his individual needs, Euthyrox is available in the form of tablets containing from 25 to 150 micrograms of levothyroxine sodium. Therefore, patients are usually prescribed only 1 tablet per day.

Dose information is advisory.

The daily dose is determined individually, depending on the laboratory parameters and the clinical picture of the disease.

Since elevated T4 and fT4 concentrations have been observed in some patients treated with levothyroxine, basal plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone concentration is a more reliable indicator for further dose adjustment.

Thyroid hormone therapy should be started at a low dose and gradually increased (every 2 to 4 weeks) to the required therapeutic dose.

Elderly patients with coronary heart disease, patients with severe or prolonged hypothyroidism, treatment should be started with extreme caution, with low doses (12.5 mcg / day), the dose should be increased to maintenance at long intervals (12.5 mcg every 2 weeks), regularly monitoring the level of thyroid hormones. It should be taken into account that the appointment at a dose below the optimal one, which provides complete replacement therapy, does not lead to a complete correction of the TSH level.

Experience shows that low doses are sufficient for patients with low body weight and for patients with large nodular goiters.

The daily dose can be taken as a single dose.

Take the daily dose in the morning on an empty stomach, half an hour before meals, with a small amount of water (half a glass of water).

Euthyrox is used throughout life as a replacement therapy for hypothyroidism, after surgical interventions (strumectomy or thyroidectomy), and also to prevent relapses after removal of a euthyroid goiter. Complex therapy with thyreostatics should be prescribed after reaching the euthyroid state.

In the benign form of euthyroid goiter, the duration of treatment is from 6 months to 2 years. If the condition does not improve after treatment, surgery or radioactive iodine therapy should be prescribed.

Children . For newborns with congenital hypothyroidism, when rapid achievement of a therapeutic effect is very important, the initial recommended dose is 10-15 mcg / kg of body weight per day for the first 3 months. After that, the dose is adjusted individually depending on the clinical parameters and the level of TSH.

For infants, the dose of the drug is administered in 1 dose 30 minutes before the first feeding. The tablet is dissolved in water until a suspension is obtained, which should be prepared immediately before taking the drug and used after additional addition of a small amount of water.

• hypersensitivity to drug components;
• adrenal insufficiency, pituitary insufficiency, thyrotoxicosis, not previously treated;
• acute myocardial infarction, acute myocarditis, acute pancarditis;
• combination therapy with levothyroxine and antithyroid drugs during pregnancy is not prescribed (see SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS).

Clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism may occur with overdose, exceeding the individual tolerated dose of levothyroxine if the dose is rapidly increased at the start of treatment.

Symptoms:

from the side of the cardiovascular system: arrhythmia (atrial fibrillation, extrasystole), tachycardia, angina pectoris, hot flashes, palpitations;

from the nervous system: headache, insomnia, anxiety, brain pseudotumor, tremor;

from the gastrointestinal tract: vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss;

from the skin and musculoskeletal system: increased sweating, muscle weakness and convulsions;

general disorders: fever, menstrual disorders.

In such cases, the dose of the drug should be reduced or treatment should be interrupted for several days. After the disappearance of adverse reactions, treatment can be continued.

In case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, allergic skin reactions (rash, urticaria) and from the respiratory tract, including skin rashes, itching, urticaria, shortness of breath can be observed. There have been reports of cases of angioedema (Quincke’s edema).

Before starting treatment with thyroid hormones or testing for thyroid suppression, diseases such as coronary insufficiency, angina pectoris, atherosclerosis, hypertension, pituitary insufficiency, adrenal insufficiency should be excluded or preliminarily treated. It is also necessary to exclude the functional autonomy of the thyroid gland or pre-treat this disease before starting therapy with thyroid hormones.

In the event of adrenocortical dysfunction, appropriate replacement therapy should be instituted before starting levothyroxine therapy to prevent acute adrenal insufficiency (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Levothyroxine therapy in patients at risk of developing psychiatric disorders should be started with low doses of the drug and gradually increased at the beginning of therapy. It is recommended to monitor the patient’s condition. In case of development of mental disorders, the possibility of dose adjustment of levothyroxine should be considered.

The possibility of even minor manifestations of thyrotoxicosis caused by the use of the drug should be avoided in patients with coronary insufficiency, heart failure, tachyarrhythmia. In the treatment of such patients with thyroid hormones, it is necessary to regularly monitor their level.

In the case of secondary thyrotoxicosis, the cause should be identified before the administration of replacement therapy, if necessary, a course of replacement therapy should be carried out to compensate for the insufficiency of the adrenal cortex.

If functional autonomy of the thyroid gland is suspected, the level of TSH should be determined or a thyroscintigraphy should be performed before starting treatment with the drug.

When levothyroxine therapy is initiated in very low birth weight preterm neonates, hemodynamic parameters should be monitored as circulatory disturbance may result from immature adrenal function.

For post-menopausal women with hypothyroidism who are at increased risk of developing osteoporosis, plasma levels of levothyroxine that are too high above physiological levels should be avoided. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully monitor laboratory parameters of thyroid function. Do not prescribe the drug to patients with hyperthyroid conditions when treated with antithyroid drugs for the treatment of hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid hormones should not be used to reduce body weight. Appointment in physiological doses does not lead to a decrease in body weight in patients with a normally functioning thyroid gland (euthyroid state). If the recommended doses are exceeded, serious or even life-threatening adverse reactions may occur. The use of high doses of levothyroxine should not be combined with the use of certain substances intended to reduce body weight (for example, sympathomimetics) (see OVERDOSE).

If there is a need to switch from one drug to another that contains levothyroxine, close monitoring, including clinical and biological monitoring, should be performed during the transition period due to the potential risk of thyroid dysfunction. Some patients may require a dose adjustment.

Co-administration of orlistat and levothyroxine may cause the development and/or worsening of hypothyroidism control (see INTERACTIONS). Patients taking levothyroxine should consult their physician before starting, stopping, or changing their treatment with orlistat, as orlistat and levothyroxine need to be taken at different times, and adjust the dose of levothyroxine. In the future, it is recommended to monitor the level of hormones in the blood plasma of patients.

Use with caution in patients with diabetes who are taking anticoagulants (see INTERACTIONS).

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, i.e. practically sodium-free.

Use during pregnancy or lactation. During pregnancy or lactation, treatment with a drug prescribed for hypothyroidism should be continued. During pregnancy, there may be a need to increase the dose of the drug.

Since an increase in plasma TSH levels can occur as early as the 4th week of pregnancy, pregnant women taking levothyroxine should have their TSH levels checked during each trimester. Plasma TSH levels in pregnant women should be within the appropriate limits established for each trimester. To correct elevated plasma levels of TSH, the dose of levothyroxine should be increased. Since postnatal TSH levels correspond to pre-fertilization levels, the dose of levothyroxine should be adjusted immediately after delivery to match the pre-pregnancy dose. The required level of TSH in the blood plasma should be established 6–8 weeks after delivery.

Pregnancy . There are no data on teratogenicity and / or fetotoxicity when taking the drug at recommended therapeutic doses. Taking very high doses of levothyroxine during pregnancy can adversely affect the fetus and postnatal development of the child.

Combination therapy with levothyroxine and antithyroid drugs during pregnancy is not indicated for the treatment of hyperthyroidism because this combination of drugs requires higher doses of antithyroid drugs that can cross the placenta and can cause hypothyroidism in the fetus. The thyroid suppression test is not performed during pregnancy because the use of radioactive substances is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding . Levothyroxine is excreted in breast milk, however, when the drug is used at recommended therapeutic doses, the concentration of the drug in breast milk is insufficient to develop hyperthyroidism or inhibit TSH secretion in an infant.

Children. The drug is used in children from birth (see APPLICATION).

The ability to influence the reaction rate when driving vehicles or working with mechanisms. There are no data on the possible effect on the ability to drive vehicles and work with mechanisms. However, since levothyroxine is identical in its action to the natural thyroid hormone, the effect of the drug Euthyrox on the reaction rate when driving vehicles or operating other mechanisms is not expected.

antidiabetic agents: levothyroxine may reduce the effect of antidiabetic drugs. Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels is recommended at the beginning of treatment with levothyroxine, and if necessary, adjust the dose of the antidiabetic drug.

Coumarin derivatives: levothyroxine enhances the action of anticoagulants, displacing them from their bonds with blood plasma proteins, thereby increasing the risk of hemorrhages, such as hemorrhages in the spinal cord and brain or gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in the elderly. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct laboratory monitoring of coagulation parameters at the beginning and during combination therapy and, if necessary, reduce the dose of anticoagulants.

Protease inhibitors (eg ritonavir, indinavir, lopinavir) may interfere with the action of levothyroxine. Thyroid hormone levels should be carefully monitored. If necessary, the dose of levothyroxine should be adjusted.

Phenytoin can influence the action of levothyroxine, displacing it from its association with blood plasma proteins, resulting in an increase in the level of free thyroxine (fT ₄ ) and free triiodothyronine (fT ₃ ) fractions. On the other hand, phenytoin increases the hepatic metabolism of levothyroxine. Careful monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is recommended.

Colestyramine , colestipol inhibit the absorption of levothyroxine. Therefore, levothyroxine sodium should be taken 4-5 hours before taking such drugs.

Preparations containing aluminum (antacids, sucralfate), iron and calcium carbonate may reduce the effect of levothyroxine. Therefore, drugs containing levothyroxine should be taken at least 2 hours before taking drugs containing aluminum, iron or calcium carbonate.

Salicylates, dicoumarol, high dose furosemide (250 mg), clofibrate and other substances can displace levothyroxine sodium from its bonds with blood plasma proteins, which leads to an increase in the fT ₄ fraction.

Orlistat . The combined use of orlistat and levothyroxine may cause the development and / or worsening of the control of hypothyroidism. This may be due to a decrease in the absorption of iodine salts and / or levothyroxine.

Sevelamer may reduce the absorption of levothyroxine. In this regard, it is recommended to monitor changes in thyroid function at the beginning and at the end of combined treatment. If necessary, the dose of levothyroxine should be adjusted.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (eg imatinib, sunitinib) may reduce the effectiveness of levothyroxine. In this regard, it is recommended to monitor changes in thyroid function at the beginning and at the end of combined treatment. If necessary, the dose of levothyroxine should be adjusted.

Propylthiouracil, corticosteroids, β-sympatholytics, amiodarone and preparations containing iodine suppress peripheral conversion of T ₄ to T ₃ .

Due to the high content of iodine, amiodarone can contribute to the development of both hyper- and hypothyroidism. With extreme caution, the drug should be prescribed to patients with nodular goiter of uncertain etiology.

Sertraline, chloroquine/proguanil reduce the efficacy of levothyroxine and increase plasma TSH laboratory values.

Enzymes induced by drugs (barbiturates, carbamazepine) may increase hepatic clearance of levothyroxine.

Estrogens. Women taking contraceptives containing estrogens, as well as post-menopausal women taking hormone replacement drugs, may require higher doses of levothyroxine.

Preparations containing soy may inhibit intestinal absorption of levothyroxine. In this regard, the dose of Euthyrox should be adjusted, especially at the beginning and end of the period of use of supplements containing soy.

boost T ₃ (triiodothyronine) is a reliable indicator of drug overdose, more than an increase in plasma levels of T ₄ and fT ₄ (free). As a result of an overdose, metabolic rates may increase (see SIDE EFFECTS).

In some cases, when the individual allowable dose has been exceeded, seizures may develop in patients prone to convulsions.

Overdose of levothyroxine may cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism and lead to acute psychosis, especially in patients at risk of developing psychotic disorders.

Several cases of sudden cardiac death have been reported in patients who have abused (over the recommended dose) levothyroxine for many years.

In case of overdose, stop using the drug and conduct laboratory tests. With symptoms such as tachycardia, anxiety, nervous excitability, hyperkinesia, β-adrenergic blockers are prescribed. With a significant excess of the dose, plasmapheresis is recommended.

at temperatures up to 25 °C.

Thyroid atrophy (acquired)	ICD E03.4
Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT)	ICD E06. 3
Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic disorders complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium	ICD O99.2
Congenital hypothyroidism	ICD E03.1
Congenital hypothyroidism with diffuse goiter	ICD E03.0
Hypoplasia of the thyroid gland	ICD E07.8
Hypothyroidism	ICD E03.9
Hypothyroidism following medical procedures	ICD E89.0
Other specified forms of non-toxic goiter	ICD E04.8
Other chronic thyroiditis	ICD E06.5
Cardiomyopathy in metabolic disorders	ICD I43.1
False contractions up to 37 completed weeks of pregnancy	ICD O47. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment * Name * Email * Website