Is 137 mcg Levothyroxine a High Dose?

Levothyroxine is a commonly prescribed medication for managing hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It plays a vital role in restoring normal thyroid hormone levels in the body, supporting metabolic processes, and maintaining energy.

However, patients often wonder whether their dose, such as 137 mcg, is considered high. This blog post will explore this question, providing clarity and guidance on levothyroxine dosage.

Key Takeaways:

137 mcg of levothyroxine is a moderate dose and not universally high or low.

The appropriateness of the dose depends on factors like weight, age, and TSH levels.

A “high dose” typically refers to doses above 200 mcg/day.

Levothyroxine dosages are personalized and often start at 1.6 mcg per kilogram of body weight.

Regular blood tests are crucial to determine and adjust the correct dose.

Side effects can occur if the dose is too high (e.g., rapid heartbeat) or too low (e.g., fatigue).

Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.

A levothyroxine dose of 137 mcg is considered moderate and is not universally “high” or “low.” The appropriateness of this dose depends on factors such as:

Age
Weight
Severity of hypothyroidism
Other medical conditions

For some individuals, 137 mcg may be the optimal dose to maintain normal thyroid levels, while for others, it could be too much or too little.

Therefore, it’s essential to rely on regular blood tests, such as TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels, to ensure the dosage is appropriate.

For more information, you can check here.

You can calculate your using our levothyroxine dosage calculator.

What is a High Dose of Levothyroxine?

A “high dose” of levothyroxine typically refers to doses exceeding 200 mcg per day. Such doses are generally reserved for individuals with severe hypothyroidism or those who have undergone thyroid removal. Prolonged high doses can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as:

Rapid heartbeat
Anxiety
Insomnia
Weight loss

Physicians carefully monitor patients on higher doses to prevent overmedication and complications.

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Levothyroxine Dosage

Factors Influencing Dosage

Levothyroxine dosage is highly individualized and depends on:

Body weight
Age and gender
Underlying health conditions
Pregnancy
TSH levels

Most adults start with a standard dose of 1.6 mcg per kilogram of body weight per day. Adjustments are made every 4-6 weeks based on blood test results and symptom management.

Common Starting Doses

Mild hypothyroidism: 25–50 mcg/day
Moderate hypothyroidism: 75–125 mcg/day
Severe hypothyroidism: Up to 200 mcg/day

For more information, check here.

How to Decide Your Thyroid Dose

Determining the correct levothyroxine dose involves collaboration with your healthcare provider. Here’s the process:

Initial Assessment
- Your doctor evaluates your TSH, T3, and T4 levels through blood tests.
Starting Dose
- Based on your weight and severity of symptoms, a starting dose is prescribed.
Regular Monitoring
- TSH levels are rechecked every 4-6 weeks to assess the effectiveness of the dose.
Adjustments
- If TSH remains elevated, the dose is increased. If it’s too low, the dose is reduced.

You can learn more about deciding the levothyroxine dosage here from our article.

Levothyroxine Dosage Chart by Weight

Body Weight (kg)	Starting Dose (mcg/day)
50–60	75–100
61–70	100–112
71–80	112–125
81–90	125–137
91–100	137–150
>100	150+

This chart provides a general guideline, but individual needs may vary. Always consult with your doctor.

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Levothyroxine Side Effects

While levothyroxine is generally well-tolerated, incorrect dosages may lead to side effects:

If the Dose is Too High

Nervousness or anxiety
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Insomnia
Weight loss
Sweating or heat intolerance

If the Dose is Too Low

Fatigue
Weight gain
Depression
Cold intolerance
Dry skin

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor for a dose adjustment.

For more information, you can check here.

Conclusion

A dose of 137 mcg of levothyroxine is not inherently “high” or “low” but falls within the moderate range. The suitability of this dose depends on individual factors, including weight, age, and thyroid function.

Regular blood tests and consultations with your doctor are essential to ensure your dose is optimal. Always follow your prescribed dosage and report any side effects to your healthcare provider.

Managing hypothyroidism effectively requires understanding your medication and its role in maintaining balance. With proper guidance, you can achieve stable thyroid levels and enjoy better overall health.

Related:

Reference

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Colucci P, Yue CS, Ducharme M, Benvenga S. A Review of the Pharmacokinetics of Levothyroxine for the Treatment of Hypothyroidism. Eur Endocrinol. 2013 Mar;9(1):40-47. doi: 10.17925/EE.2013.09.01.40. Epub 2013 Mar 15. PMID: 30349610; PMCID: PMC6193522.
Ratanapornsompong G, Sriphrapradang C. Appropriate dose of levothyroxine replacement therapy for hypothyroid obese patients. J Clin Transl Endocrinol. 2021 Jul 30;25:100264. doi: 10.1016/j.jcte.2021.100264. PMID: 34401353; PMCID: PMC8350177.
Raashid K, Ishtiaq O, Kamin M, Rehman T, Khan SA, Raja U, Shah FH. Weight and Body Mass Index for Predicting Thyroxine Dose in Primary Hypothyroidism. Cureus. 2021 May 14;13(5):e15031. doi: 10.7759/cureus.15031. PMID: 34136323; PMCID: PMC8200257.
Ochani S, Siddiqui A, Adnan A. Adverse effects of long-term Levothyroxine therapy in Subclinical Hypothyroidism. Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2022 Apr 4;76:103503. doi: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.103503. PMID: 35495406; PMCID: PMC9052136.

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Is 137 mcg Levothyroxine a High Dose?

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