Soloxine® (Brand)

What is Soloxine?
Soloxine is a prescription medication used to treat hypothyroidism. It provides thyroid replacement when the pet's thyroid gland isn't producing enough of its own. It is the synthetic hormone levothyroxine. Hypothyroidism is caused by lack of thyroid hormone and is characterized by lack of energy and weight gain. It is a disease commonly seen in middle age and older dogs

Who is it for?
Soloxine is for dogs and cats. It should only be used on the pet for which it was prescribed.

What are the benefits?

*	Replaces thyroid when the thyroid gland is not producing it as it should
*	A prescription solution for dogs and cats with hypothyroidism
*	Comes in multiple concentrations for accurate dosing

How does Soloxine work?
Soloxine contains levothyroxine, which acts similar to the hormone thyroxine, which is produced naturally by the thyroid gland. Thyroxine normally regulates many body processes. When the body is not producing enough of this hormone on its own, the condition is called hypothyroidism. Soloxine works like thyroxine to maintain normal metabolism in the body.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Yes. L-Thyroxine.

How is it given?
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. Dogs and Cats: Give by mouth. If approved by your veterinarian, it may be given with food. Birds: Soloxine is usually administered in the drinking water.

Differences exist between brands. Do not change brands if possible. If there is a need to change, your veterinarian may need to recheck thyroid hormone levels and adjust dose if indicated.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Soloxine helps to replace the hormone that the body should normally produce. It will not cure the thyroid condition, but will relieve the symptoms. Because every pet reacts differently to this medication, your veterinarian may monitor thyroid hormone levels in the blood every 2-4 weeks while adjusting the dose. Periodic testing is also necessary while the pet is taking Soloxine.

It generally takes several weeks of therapy to see an effect. In almost all cases, the pet will need to be on a thyroid supplement such as Soloxine for life.

What form(s) does it come in?
Soloxine comes in tablet form.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Soloxine

Pronunciation
So-LOX-een

Common Drug Name
Levothyroxine

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Soloxine?
Be sure to understand the dosing schedule that is prescribed by your veterinarian. Also, discuss the exams and laboratory tests that may be necessary while your pet is on Soloxine.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet could be pregnant, has been diagnosed with Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism) or has any heart problems.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Because every pet reacts differently to this medication, your veterinarian may monitor thyroid hormone levels in the blood every 2-4 weeks while adjusting the dose. Periodic testing is also necessary while the pet is taking Soloxine.

It generally takes several weeks of therapy to see an effect. In almost all cases, the pet will need to be on a thyroid supplement such as Soloxine for life.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it. Use with extreme caution in older or debilitated animals, or those with heart disease, high blood pressure, Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism), or diabetes.

Do not use in animals with hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the body produces too much thyroid hormone.

What side effects may be seen when taking Soloxine?
There are no known side effects when given at correct dosage. Some species of red-feathered birds may start growing yellow feathers.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
With chronic overdosing (taking a slightly higher dose over a long period of time), expect to see signs of hyperthyroidism such as an increase in drinking, urinating, eating, activity; seeking cool areas; increased heart rate; panting; restlessness; and behavior changes. May also see vomiting.

If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of the above signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Soloxine?
Consult with your veterinarian before using this medication with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, epinephrine, norepinephrine, insulin, estrogens, warfarin, or digoxin, since interactions may occur.

No known food interactions.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.

Hypothyroid? Symptoms Checklist

Sometimes, in the stress of the moment, owners forget to tell their veterinarian relevant information about their pets. Here is a handy checklist to bring with you to your next veterinary appointment.

Hypothyroidism in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment

Hypothyroidism is the condition that occurs when not enough thyroid hormone is produced. It causes a wide variety of symptoms, but is often suspected in dogs that have weight gain or obesity and suffer from hair loss and skin problems.

Pharmacy Spotlight: Soloxine®

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