Endocrine Medication and Associated System Disorder
Disorder: Hypothyroidism
Medication: Levothyroxine
NO Plagiarism. Fill out both worksheets with key information only. Micromedex is a great source. Include a 300 word minimum APA 7 paper that analyzes and correlates the disorder and the medication with reference page and intext citation using scholarly sources only. Follow attached instructions for the worksheets and APA paper.
Due: 6/15/21 at 11 PM Eastern standard time.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder resulting from insufficient production of thyroid hormones. It affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to various health complications, such as weight gain, fatigue, and depression. Levothyroxine is a medication commonly prescribed to treat hypothyroidism by replacing the deficient hormone levels in the body. In this paper, we will analyze and correlate hypothyroidism and levothyroxine with a focus on their associated system disorder and medication.
Answer:
Hypothyroidism is a chronic endocrine disorder in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, resulting in a decrease in metabolic activity. It can cause a range of symptoms, including weight gain, fatigue, cold intolerance, hair loss, and depression. Levothyroxine is a medication that replaces the deficient hormone levels in the body, thereby restoring metabolic activity and alleviating the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.
Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of T4, the primary thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It is absorbed in the small intestine and converted to T3, the active form of thyroid hormone, in various tissues in the body. Levothyroxine dosage is crucial in the treatment of hypothyroidism as it is affected by several factors such as age, weight, and other underlying medical conditions.
Levothyroxine’s side effects include heart palpitations, tremors, and sweating, particularly when overdosed. The medication should be taken in isolation from all other medications, as some can decrease the absorption of levothyroxine. Additionally, levothyroxine absorption is affected by food as it reduces its bioavailability, especially with high fiber food, so it’s essential to take the medication on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast.
In conclusion, hypothyroidism is a common disorder, and levothyroxine is an effective medication in treating the condition. Adequate dosage and timing are crucial in the treatment’s success, and aside from side effects, the medication is generally safe with minimal adverse interactions with other medications. Healthcare professionals should monitor the patient’s thyroid hormone levels frequently to ensure proper dosage and adjust as necessary.
