Eltroxin 50mcg Tablets are a prescription thyroid hormone replacement medication containing levothyroxine sodium anhydrous 50mcg per tablet, manufactured by GSK. This strength is one of the most commonly prescribed starting doses for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) in adults, and the recommended initiation dose for patients over 50 years of age and those with cardiovascular conditions. Available in a pack of 100 tablets at MedX Pharmacy in the UAE, it provides a full 100-day supply for patients established on this dose.

How It Works

The thyroid gland produces thyroxine (T4), the hormone that governs metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy regulation. In hypothyroidism, insufficient T4 causes symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, hair loss, low mood, and dry skin. Eltroxin 50mcg provides levothyroxine sodium - a synthetic form of T4 - which is absorbed in the small intestine and progressively converted in peripheral tissues to triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of thyroid hormone. By restoring T4 levels, Eltroxin helps normalise the body's metabolic processes, with improvement in symptoms typically observed over 4 to 6 weeks.

Important Information

Eltroxin 50mcg Tablets are a prescription-only long-term medication. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, adjusting, or stopping treatment. The 50mcg strength is the recommended maximum starting dose for patients over 50 years and those with ischaemic heart disease, as it minimises the risk of cardiovascular strain during the initiation period. Do not switch between levothyroxine brands without medical supervision, as products are not bioequivalent. Regular TSH monitoring is essential. Inform your doctor of all medications you take, as several drugs including calcium, iron, and certain antiepileptics affect levothyroxine absorption or breakdown. Inform your doctor if you are or plan to become pregnant.

Each Eltroxin 50mcg tablet contains levothyroxine sodium anhydrous 50mcg as the active substance. The excipients are:

• Sodium citrate

• Lactose monohydrate

• Maize starch

• Acacia powder

• Magnesium stearate

Note: This product contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should seek medical advice before use.

The dose of Eltroxin must be determined individually by your doctor based on TSH blood test results, age, weight, and cardiac status.

1. Take one tablet once daily on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast.

2. Swallow whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or halve.

3. Allow at least 4 hours between Eltroxin and calcium supplements, iron tablets, antacids, or bile acid sequestrants, as these impair absorption.

4. The dose may be increased gradually at 3 to 4 week intervals as directed by your doctor after TSH recheck.

5. Store below 25 degrees C in the original packaging, protected from light and moisture.