Thyroid Medication Recall: What Patients Should Know
A recent nationwide recall of certain thyroid medication has raised questions for patients who rely on thyroid hormone replacement therapy. While recalls can be concerning, patients shouldn’t stop taking their medication without speaking with their doctor first.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a voluntary recall of one lot of thyroid tablets, USP 30 mg, manufactured by Vitruvias Therapeutics, Inc. The recall involves lot number 504950 and was issued after testing found the tablets could be more potent than intended. The medication is used to treat hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid.
What does “superpotent” mean?
Thyroid hormone medications require precise dosing because even small changes can make a big difference.
Taking a medication that contains more thyroid hormone than intended could cause symptoms associated with an overactive thyroid. These may include a fast or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, increased sweating or heat intolerance, muscle weakness, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. More serious complications can occur in some patients, particularly those with underlying heart conditions.
What should patients do if their medication has been recalled?
First, check your medication bottle against the information in the FDA recall notice, including the medication name, strength, lot number, and expiration date. Not every thyroid medication or every lot is affected by a recall.
If your medication is part of the recalled lot, don’t make changes to your treatment on your own. Contact your prescribing physician or pharmacist as soon as possible. The FDA and manufacturer recommend that patients taking the recalled product speak with their doctor about a replacement prescription rather than simply stopping treatment.
Patients who develop concerning symptoms such as chest pain, a significantly fast or irregular heartbeat, severe weakness, or shortness of breath should seek medical attention quickly.
Are there alternatives to recalled thyroid medication?
Yes. There are several prescription thyroid hormone replacement options, but it depends on why a patient takes thyroid medication, their current dose, thyroid hormone levels, and other health considerations.
If your thyroid medication was recalled, it’s important to reach out to your doctor as quickly as possible to talk about alternative options or a new treatment plan.
A medication recall doesn’t mean you should stop your thyroid treatment. Check your prescription carefully, contact your pharmacist or doctor if you have questions, and work with your care team to determine the safest replacement and dose if your medication has been recalled.
Jackson Health System has a dedicated endocrinology team available to help treat thyroid disorders, diabetes, and other diseases related to the endocrine system. For more information on Jackson’s endocrinology services or to make an appointment, visit our website at https://medicalgroup.jacksonhealth.org/services/endocrinology/.