Diseases that are associated with impaired functioning of the thyroid gland are very serious. It's no secret that quite often such hormonal changes are associated with iodine deficiency. In the arsenal of modern medicine, there are many drugs that can normalize the functioning of the thyroid gland. One of them is Yodokomb 50/150. Analogues of the drug, of course, are available, but, according to doctors, they are slightly inferior in effectiveness.
Of course, before starting therapy, patients try to find the maximum amount of information about a particular remedy. So what is included in this medicine and how does it differ from other similar drugs? How much does Yodokomb cost? How to take pills? This information will be useful to many.
Description of release form and composition
This drug is produced in the form of round tablets with beveled white edges. What is included in the drug "Yodokomb"? The active substance is potassium levothyroxine sodium monohydrate (in terms of the pure form of sodium levothyroxine 50 μg). Potassium iodide is also present (corresponding to a content of 150 μg iodine).
Of course, the tablets also contain auxiliary components, in particular hydroxyl magnesium carbonate, corn starch, hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, calcium behenate and colloidal silicon dioxide.
This is how the composition of the drug “Iodocomb 50/150” looks like. Its analogs, as a rule, contain only one active component. It is this composition that makes the tablets so effective.
How does the drug affect the human body?
For many patients, questions about what the drug is are interesting. The composition of the drug "Iodocomb", analogues, instructions for use, restrictions on the conduct of therapy - all this is very important information. Nevertheless, it is worth considering the features of the effect of the drug on the human body.
This is a combined tool, which contains two active components at once. Levothyroxine sodium is a synthetic hormonal substance whose mechanism of action is similar to the influence of natural thyroid hormones.
The second component is inorganic iodine. As you know, this substance is extremely important for the normal functioning of the endocrine system, and the whole organism. The daily human need for this mineral is 100-250 mcg. In physiological quantities, iodine normalizes the functioning of the thyroid gland, and therefore, the hormonal background of the whole organism. This substance also prevents the development of goiter caused by iodine deficiency. Normally, a person receives minerals from food, but today, cases of iodine deficiency are often recorded. By the way, the effect of this substance on the body largely depends on the dosage form and condition of the thyroid gland.
Pharmacodynamics features
Sodium levothyroxine is absorbed mainly by the walls of the small intestine. If you take the medicine on an empty stomach, then the degree of absorption is 80%. The maximum concentration of this substance in the blood is observed after six hours. Persistent hormone levels are reached 3-5 days after the start of treatment. Levothyroxine is almost completely (99%) bound to plasma proteins.
As for inorganic iodine, it is 100% absorbed by the small intestine. In the human body, this substance accumulates not only in the thyroid gland, but also in the mammary and salivary glands, and tissues of the stomach.
Levothyroxine metabolism occurs mainly in the liver cells, but also in the kidneys, brain tissues, and muscles. Iodine is excreted from the body by the kidneys, and only a small part of it leaves the body along with feces.
When is it advisable to take Iodocomb tablets?
Of course, patients are primarily interested in the question of when to take the drug "Iodocomb." Indications for use are as follows:
- diffuse euthyroid goiter, which developed against a background of iodine deficiency in the body;
- as a preventive measure after partial removal or surgery on the thyroid gland, since the drug can prevent the development of goiter;
- as a prophylactic, the drug is prescribed to patients who have been treated with radioactive iodine.
It is worth remembering that only a doctor can prescribe taking the iodocomb tablets. Analogues of the drug, by the way, can also not be used on their own, since uncontrolled intake of funds containing iodine can lead to dangerous consequences.
Instructions for use: approximate dosage and general recommendations
Immediately it is worth noting that taking the medicine without permission is not worth it, especially if it is a violation of the thyroid gland. First you need to conduct a thorough diagnosis, take tests, check the level of hormones and the presence of contraindications. Only after this, the doctor can prescribe the appropriate drug, determine the dose and duration of treatment.
As a rule, patients are advised to take one tablet once a day. Ideally, the drug is drunk in the morning, on an empty stomach. The tablet should not be crushed or chewed - it must be swallowed completely with a small amount of liquid. In the event that the dose of the active substance is not enough, the patient may be advised to take the same Iodocomb tablets, but with a dosage of 75/150.
The duration of the course of treatment is determined individually, because it depends on many factors, including the degree of damage to the thyroid gland. Treatment usually lasts several months, although some patients require lifelong therapy.
Are there any restrictions on admission? List of contraindications
Not in all cases, you can take the drug "Iodocomb 50/150", its analogues or medicines containing iodine. Here is a list of contraindications for therapy:
- increased thyroid secretion, regardless of the causes of hyperactivity;
- previously suffered by the patient myocardial infarction;
- some diseases of the cardiovascular system, for example, acute myocarditis, angina pectoris;
- diffuse or focal autonomy of thyroid function;
- insufficient activity of the adrenal cortex, especially if the patient does not undergo appropriate treatment;
- pituitary insufficiency;
- hypersensitivity to the active or auxiliary components of the tablets;
- herpetiform dermatitis of Dühring;
- the medicine has age restrictions - it is not prescribed for children and adolescents (under 18 years old).
In addition, there are a number of relative contraindications. This means that the tablets "Iodocomb" must be taken extremely carefully and carefully monitor the condition of the body. This group includes diseases of the cardiovascular system such as tachyarrhythmia, coronary heart disease, persistent arterial hypertension, heart failure.
In addition, you need to carefully monitor the condition of patients suffering from epilepsy, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes and diabetes insipidus. Relative contraindications include prolonged hypothyroidism, malabsorption syndrome, as well as advanced age (if a person is over 65 years old).
The drug "Iodocomb": side effects and possible complications
It's no secret that some drugs can adversely affect the body. Are complications possible while taking Iodocomb tablets? Side effects are possible, although, according to reviews, they are recorded relatively rarely. Here is a list of possible reactions to the drug:
- Some patients show signs of hyperthyroidism. This, in particular, arrhythmia, tachycardia, sometimes angina pectoris. Side effects include weight loss, as well as decreased appetite and diarrhea. Some people complain of insomnia, a constant inexplicable feeling of anxiety, and excessive sweating.
- There may be allergic reactions, which are manifested by various symptoms, ranging from skin redness and rash, ending with edema, urticaria, anaphylactic shock.
If therapy is accompanied by the appearance of signs of hyperthyroidism, then it is enough to reduce the daily amount of the drug. An allergic reaction requires the withdrawal of the drug. In any case, if you notice any deterioration, it is worthwhile to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Is an overdose dangerous?
What will happen if you take too large amounts of the iodocomb 50/150 tablet. Instructions for use indicate that an overdose is possible, although such cases are rarely recorded in medical practice.
Against the background of taking too much of the drug, the appearance of arrhythmia, tachycardia, tremor is possible. Some patients have excessive sweating, diarrhea, insomnia, and a strong sense of anxiety. With longer therapy, a sharp decrease in body weight is possible.
If we are talking about the long-term use of large doses of the drug, then patients are simply recommended to reduce the daily amount of the drug. In acute poisoning, gastric lavage is performed, after which symptomatic therapy is carried out. Plasmapheresis is prescribed when taking a critical dose.
Features of interaction with other drugs
- If the patient suffers from hyperthyroidism, then iodine intake should be avoided.
- Joint administration of this drug with Amiodarone can lead to the development of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
- Medicines such as Colestipol and Colestyramine reduce the absorption of levothyroxine sodium. That is why drugs should be taken with an interval of at least 4-5 hours.
- The absorption of levothyroxine is affected by the administration of preparations containing iron salts, as well as antacids containing aluminum. Therefore, doctors recommend taking Iodocomb tablets with an interval of at least two hours.
- The rapid administration of Phenytoinum (intravenously) often leads to a sharp increase in the level of free levothyroxine in the blood. In turn, this can lead to various heart rhythm disturbances.
- High doses of salicylates, Furosemide, Dicumarol, Clofibrate (250 mg or more) reduce the degree of binding of levothyroxine to blood plasma proteins.
- The concomitant use of "Iodocomb" and anticoagulants can enhance the effect of the latter. If for one reason or another, the patient needs to use two drugs at once, it is very important to constantly monitor the degree of blood coagulation in order to avoid massive bleeding.
- Levothyroxine may weaken the effect of hypoglycemic drugs. When treating patients with diabetes, it is very important to monitor the level of glucose in the blood. If necessary, you can adjust the daily dose of hypoclycemic drugs.
The drug "Iodocomb 50/150": analogues and substitutes for the drug
Sometimes a problem arises in therapy when, for one reason or another, the drug prescribed by the doctor is not suitable for the patient. Can Iodocomb be replaced with something? Analogues exist, although there are not many of them in the modern pharmaceutical market. In some cases, the drug "Iodtirox" may be included in the course of therapy, which has approximately the same properties. This is a good analogue to the iodocomb 50/150 tablets.
In addition, the medicine can be replaced by two separate drugs (for example, Bagotirox and Potassium iodide, L-thyroxine and Iodomarin, Eutirox and Iodine-balance). In any case, you should not look for substitutes on your own - only a specialist can choose high-quality and safe medicines.
How much are the pills?
Of course, the equally important issue is the cost of the drug. In fact, the price of tablets is quite affordable and ranges from 380 to 520 rubles. It is worthwhile to understand that the actual figures may vary slightly, since the cost depends on many factors, including the city of purchase, the policy of the pharmacy, the distributor, etc. In some cases, several packages may be required to complete the therapy.
Reviews of doctors and patients
Patients are often interested in the opinions of specialists, as well as people who took the pill "Iodocomb 50/150". The reviews are mostly positive, both from the side of physicians and from the side of patients. Doctors note the good effect that this drug provides. With the help of a correctly selected treatment regimen, thyroid function can be normalized. As a preventative measure, this remedy also works well.
Patients say that the medicine is well tolerated, rarely causing any side effects. Even if any deterioration does occur, they can be eliminated with a simple dosage adjustment. The disadvantages include the price. On the other hand, the cost of pills is not so great, especially considering their effectiveness.