A patient is undergoing thyroid replacement therapy with ...

[geodog55]

A patient is undergoing thyroid replacement therapy with levothyroxine (Levothroid). At what time should the health care provider instruct the patient to take this drug?
 
  a. Immediately after breakfast or lunch
  b. Before breakfast on an empty stomach
  c. With the last meal of the day
  d. At bedtime on an empty stomach

Question 2

Which serious adverse effects of propylthiouracil (PTU) would have to be reported to the health care provider immediately?
 
  a. Increased urine output and thirst
  b. Dizziness and hallucinations
  c. Sore throat and fever
  d. Abdominal pain and constipation

[Dominic]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Teach patients to take levothyroxine exactly as directed, on an empty stomach, and at the same time each day. Administration before breakfast is usually best.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Agranulocytosis is the most feared adverse reaction, although it occurs in 0.2 of patients. It usually develops within 90 days of starting therapy and is characterized by high fever, bacterial pharyngitis (sore throat), and an absolute granulocyte count below 250/mm3. These signs should be reported at once.

[geodog55]

Thanks

[Dominic]

Welcome