Thyroid preparation overdose

Definition

Thyroid preparation overdose is poisoning from any thyroid preparation.

Poisonous Ingredient

• Levothyroxine
  
• Liothyronine
  
• Liotrix
  
• Thyroid
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Where Found

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

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

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

Home Treatment
DO NOT induce vomiting.

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
Call Poison Control or your local emergency number - they will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. If possible, take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

• Administering activated charcoal and a laxative