19/5/2021

We are delighted that the Medicines and Healthcare Regulation Authority have issued new prescribing advice for patients who experience symptoms on switching between different levothyroxine products. 
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If a patient reports persistent symptoms when switching between different levothyroxine tablet formulations, prescribers are now advised to consider consistently prescribing a specific product known to be well tolerated by the patient. If symptoms or poor control of thyroid function persist (despite adhering to a specific product), they should consider prescribing levothyroxine in an oral solution formulation.

Read the full advice on the UK government website. 

Well done to everyone who has experienced difficulties with different formulations of levothyroxine from different manufacturers and has taken the time and trouble to report to MHRA using the Yellow Card Scheme!

If you experience issues with any medication it is really important to report them.  This announcement is evidence that the authorities do listen and things can change. 

Some people find that the different fillers in different formulations of levothyroxine do not agree with them. When that happens the best solution is to stick with the formulation that works well for the patient, or to prescribe liquid levothyroxine which doesn't contain any fillers. Many patients and doctors have known this for some time but to have it stated unequivocally in official advice is extremely helpful for those patients who have struggled to be taken seriously by their doctors, since not all GPs are always up to date with every aspect of every condition they treat. 

Thank you to MHRA!