General Drug Information and Indications

Levothyroxine sodium (synthetic T4) for hypothyroidism in dogs. Synthetic levothyroxine (T4) oral tablets for dogs. Mechanism: T4 prodrug → converted to active T3 by peripheral deiodinases → binds nuclear thyroid hormone receptors → regulates metabolic rate, cardiac function, growth, and CNS function. Replacement therapy for canine hypothyroidism. FDA-approved veterinary product. Key information Levothyroxine — see levothyroxine entry.

How to Give this Medication

Oral tablets: administer on an empty stomach (30–60 min before feeding). Separate from antacids, calcium, iron supplements, and fiber by 4 hrs. Administer at consistent times daily. Measure T4 level 4–6 hrs post-pill. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. A single missed dose is unlikely to cause immediate clinical problems.

Side Effects

Thyrotoxicosis (overdose): tachycardia, panting, polydipsia, polyphagia, weight loss, excitability, diarrhea, hypertension. Cardiac arrhythmias. Signs resolve with dose reduction. Monitor T4 levels; dose adjust based on clinical signs and laboratory values.

Precautions

For animals Monitor T4 (4–6 hrs post-pill in dogs). Adjust dose based on T4 levels and clinical signs. Do not switch between brands without rechecking levels. Drug interaction: concurrent use with catecholamines may cause cardiac arrhythmias. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Thyroid hormone — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Keep away from children and pets other than the one being treated.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Levothyroxine overdose causes hyperthyroid-like signs including rapid heart rate and hyperactivity.

Soloxine dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
SOLOXINE 0.5 MG TABLET: LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM0.5 MGTablet1Commercial
SOLOXINE 0.7 MG TABLET: LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM0.7 MGTablet—Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)