Thursday, 2 January 2020

Elimite (Permethrin) Uses, Dosage & Side Effects


What is Elimite (Permethrin)?


Elimite (Permethrin) is an FDA approved medicine since 1989, and is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson. It is a tropical cream that treats scabies. In other words, it is a neurotoxin that includes an action mechanism by paralyzing nerves in respiratory muscles of scabies, bringing their permanent end. Till the time the treatment is going on the patient should follow every direction given by the doctor.

How should I take Elimite (Permethrin)?


Elimite (Permethrin) should be used as directed by the doctor. To avoid mistakes regarding the use of cream the patient can read through the instructions mentioned on the prescription label. Normally, the use of cream includes proper massaging from head to toe. In case of kids as well as older patients the cream should not be used on the scalp. Remove the ointment by washing the head with water after 8 to 14 hours.

What happens if I miss a dose? 


The use if cream is to be done exactly as prescribed by health care provider. As it is an ointment not a tablet so skipping its use is unlikely to happen. But still if a patient forgets to use the cream then he or she can apply the same as directed for better results.

What are the dosage forms and strengths of Elimite (Permethrin)?


As mentioned above Elimite (Permethrin) is a tropical cream. It is available as a 5% cream in 60 gram tube. To obtain benefits it is best to store it at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Its use is not at all dangerous and yet very effective for both adults and children younger than 2 months to overcome their problem of scabies. The treatment using the same may be repeated in 14 days if needed.

What are the side effects of Elimite (Permethrin)?


The use of Elimite (Permethrin) may cause some serious side effects. In case the patient gets to find any he or she should immediately report to the doctor about the same.

Common Side Effects:

  •          Mild burning
  •          Itching
  •          Swelling
  •          Redness
  •          Stinging


Some Severe Side Effects:

  •          Swelling of mouth, face, lips, or tongue
  •          Difficult breathing
  •          Hives
  •          Tightness in chest
  •          Rash

The above may not be a complete list of side effects of Elimite (Permethrin). There could be more. Therefore the patient should inform the doctor about them so that a better alternative can be recommended.  

What are the precautions that a patient should take while using Elimite (Permethrin)?



  •         In case of pregnancy and breast-feeding mom it is still not clear whether the use of Elimite (Permethrin) is good or not. So, the patient should discuss with the doctor first before he begins with the use of medical drug.
  •          The patient should share the medicine with anyone.
  •          There are no significant drug interactions with Elimite (Permethrin). So, the patient should inform about all the medicines he or she is already taking before using the same.
  •          If Elimite (Permethrin) gets into the eyes wash them immediately.


Monday, 16 December 2019

Synthroid (Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine) - Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Precautions


What is Synthroid (Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine)?

Synthroid comes in the list of WHO’s Essential medicines. Synthroid is used as an additional for the hormone produced by the thyroid gland to control the body’s metabolism and energy. Synthroid is used when the thyroid doesn’t produce its hormone automatically.
Synthroid is a curative drug for low thyroid hormone mainly named as hypothyroidism. The medication is also used to prevent goiter caused by radiation therapy, surgery, hormone imbalances or cancer.



How should I take Synthroid (Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine)?

Synthroid dosage is decided by your healthcare provider after all the thyroid tests done. The drug is available in oral tablet form and should consume empty stomach before the breakfast. Synthroid is not a supplement of weight loss, so do not take it for obesity, otherwise it may cause serious effects on you. Misuse of L-thyroxine may lead to death. Discontinue or change in dosage on your own is strictly prohibited.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Try not to avoid synthroid as it is a necessary medicine and should be consumed on time. The intake of medicine without food is preferable before breakfast atleast 30 minutes and at the same time every day. If in any case you missed the medicine take it as soon as you  remind it.

What are the dosage forms and strengths of Synthroid (Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine)?

Synthroid dosage depends on the condition of the patient such as age, body weight, pregnancy condition, heart issues or any other that may interact with the drug. Following dosages are prescribed for the patients:

  •   Less than 50 years of age: 1.7mcg/kg/day
  • Older patients: 1mcg/kg/day
  •  Patients with cardiac disorders: 25–50mcg/kg/day (below 50 years) and 12.5–25mcg/kg/day (older)
  • Infants: 10–15mcg/kg/day
  •  Patients with thyroid cancer: >2mcg/kg/day

Should I use Synthroid (Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine) with food or without food?

Synthroid has been taken once in a day, empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. The drug is not for obesity, so do not consider it for weight loss. Overdose of the drug is strictly barred and if you find symptoms like headache, fast heartbeats, trouble breathing, leg crams or chest pain, immediately consult your doctor and tell the situation.

What are the side effects of Synthroid (Levothyroxine or L-thyroxine)?

One of the major side effect of synthroid is Mild Hair loss. Few allergic reaction to drug named as swelling on face, lips, throat or tongue, difficulty in breathing, hives, etc
Some serious side effects are:

  •        fast or pounding heart rate;
  •          fever, sweating, hot flashes,;
  •           insomnia;
  •          Chang in menstrual periods; or
  •          Weight gain or lose
  •          vomiting
  •          Loss of appetite

What are the precautions should be taken with synthroid?


  •           If you are taking drugs for calcium and iron than take the synthroid after 4 hours of taking them as it may interact with each other.
  •           If you are taking any other medicine for throid hormone, than do not take synthroid
  •           Regular tests are required with synthroid
  •           Synthroid is a life time drug, so you have to take it even if you are well.
  •           Take the pill with full glass of water
  •           If you are diabetic or any other body issue, do inform your doctor before taking the synthroid

Synthroid is available on internet and over the counter. Purchase it from any trusted online pharmacy.