Levothyroxine is used to treat hypothyroidism in dogs.
The thyroid gland in dogs, as in humans, is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the proper metabolic function of the body's organs. Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland does not properly produce necessary hormones. Hypothyroidism is treated with a prescription hormone replacement medication known as Levothyroxine that may also go by the names of Soloxine, Thyroxine or ThyroTabs. However, as with any medication, levothyroxine may have some side effects.
Allergic Reaction
Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to levothyroxine. Signs of an allergic reaction include facial swelling, swelling of the tongue, swelling and closing of the throat, difficulty breathing and hives. Bring your dog to the vet immediately if it displays any of these symptoms as it is an emergency situation.
Cough
Coughing may occur in some dogs that are taking levothyroxine. Coughing is not a serious side effect, though it should be reported to the veterinarian if it becomes chronic or severe.
Changes in Appetite
Changes in appetite may occur while a dog is taking levothyroxine. The dog could be hungrier than usual or have less appetite. Changes in appetite should be reported to a veterinarian, as it is a more serious side effect of levothyroxine.
Diarrhea
Levothyroxine can potentially cause diarrhea in some dogs. The color and consistency of the diarrhea will vary from dog to dog. Diarrhea is not a serious side effect, though persistent or extremely watery diarrhea should be reported to a veterinarian as it can lead to dehydration and illness for the affected canine.
Drowsiness
For some dogs, levothyroxine may act like a sedative and cause drowsiness.
Fever
An adult dog's temperature should be between 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit when the taken rectally. Anything above 102.5 degrees is considered a fever and should be reported to the veterinarian.
Personality Changes
Levothyroxine can cause some dogs to undergo a personality change. For example, this may mean an affectionate dog has become aggressive or timid. This is a serious side effect and should be reported to the overseeing veterinarian as soon as possible.
Polydipsia
Polydipsia describes an increased thirst in a dog. Often times, polydipsia and polyuria occur simultaneously and this may occur in dogs taking levothyroxine. Increased thirst is not a serious side effect and is due to the potential dry mouth the dog may experience while taking levothyroxine. If increased thirst appears bothersome to the canine, it should be reported to a veterinarian.
Polyuria
Polyuria is a term used to describe increased urination, which may occur in dogs who are taking levothyroxine. Increased urination is not considered a severe side effect, though it should be reported to the overseeing veterinarian.
Skin Changes
Changes in the skin may occur while a dog is taking levothyroxine. This can include itching, which may be mild to severe in nature, or a rash. If left untreated, a rash or open wounds due to excessive itching may become infected. Rashes and accompanying infections should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian for prompt treatment.
Weight Changes
Changes in appetite may cause some dogs to either lose or gain weight while taking levothyroxine. Change in weight is a severe and serious side effect that should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Vomiting
Levothyroxine has the potential to cause vomiting in some canines. Vomiting is expected and is not considered a severe side effect unless it becomes chronic or there is blood present in the vomit.
Tags: canine, levothyroxine, side, effects, side effect, should reported, taking levothyroxine, serious side, serious side effect, reported veterinarian, should reported veterinarian, some dogs
