Thyro-Tabs Canine Dosage Calculator
Dosage Results
Administration Rules
- Food Consistency: Give the pill either always with food or always on an empty stomach to keep absorption levels steady.
- Strict Timing: Give the medication at the exact same time every day.
- Veterinary Supervision: Never give human levothyroxine to a dog. Blood tests are required every 4-8 weeks to establish maintenance doses.
Available Color-Coded Strengths
⚠️ Warning: Do Not Overdose
If the dosage is too high, signs of an overactive thyroid (thyrotoxicosis) may occur. Watch for:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Sudden weight loss despite massive appetite
- Hyperactivity, restlessness, or panting
- Vomiting or diarrhea
Thyro-Tabs dosage for dogs is based on your dog’s body weight, medical condition, and response to treatment, making accurate veterinary dosing essential for safely managing canine hypothyroidism. Thyro-Tabs® is a prescription medicine that contains a synthetic thyroid hormone (thyroxine, T4) which is FDA approved. Synthetic T4 is identical to the thyroid hormone that is normally produced by your dog’s thyroid gland and it acts by replacing the thyroid hormone that your dog’s thyroid gland does not produce in adequate numbers.
Increasing the thyroid hormone to normal levels aids in proper metabolism, energy levels, nerve and muscle function, skin and coat health and physical activity.
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Hypothyroidism can occur when the thyroid gland fails to make enough thyroid hormone due to thyroid disease, thyroid gland enlargement or some medical conditions and treatments. Veterinarians use blood tests as well as clinical signs to diagnose the condition, and then prescribe thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Thyro-Tabs for dogs are in the class of drugs known as thyroid hormones and are available as an oral prescription medication for veterinary use. Levothyroxine sodium is also available as an active ingredient in other veterinary products including ThyroKare™, Soloxine and Levocrine.
This guide will tell you the recommended dosage of Thyro-Tabs for dogs by weight, a weight-based dosage chart, how to calculate your dog’s dose, how to administer Thyro-Tabs, the strength of Thyro-Tabs tablets, monitoring guidelines, potential side effects, overdose signs, and important safety precautions to keep you informed on the proper use of this medication under your veterinarian’s guidance.
What is Thyro-Tabs Dosage For Dogs?
The initial dose of Thyro-Tabs for dogs is 0.1 mg every 10 lbs of body weight (0.01 mg/lb or 0.022 mg/kg) per day, used to treat canine hypothyroidism and prescribed by a veterinarian. This FDA-approved hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine sodium) may be taken in one dose a day, every 24 hours, or in two doses a day, every 12 hours.
Since the absorption and processing of thyroid medications varies from dog to dog, blood tests are repeated every 4-8 weeks to check serum total thyroxine (TT4) levels and determine a safe, long-term maintenance dose. Thyro-Tabs should be always taken at the same time every day either with food or on an empty stomach to make sure it is always absorbed in the same way and to prevent accidental overdosage.
Thyro-Tabs Canine Dosage Chart For Dogs
Here is the initial dosage chart for Thyro-Tabs Canine based on the standard guideline of 0.1 mg per 10 pounds (0.01 mg/lb or 0.022 mg/kg).
| Dog Weight (lbs) | Dog Weight (kg) | Total Daily Dose (mg) | Corresponding Tablet Color (If given once every 24 hours) |
| 10 lbs | 4.5 kg | 0.1 mg | Yellow |
| 20 lbs | 9.1 kg | 0.2 mg | Pink |
| 30 lbs | 13.6 kg | 0.3 mg | Green |
| 40 lbs | 18.1 kg | 0.4 mg | Maroon |
| 50 lbs | 22.7 kg | 0.5 mg | White |
| 60 lbs | 27.2 kg | 0.6 mg | Purple |
| 70 lbs | 31.8 kg | 0.7 mg | Orange |
| 80 lbs | 36.3 kg | 0.8 mg | Blue |
| 90 lbs | 40.8 kg | 0.9 mg | Requires combination (e.g., 0.8 mg Blue + 0.1 mg Yellow) |
| 100 lbs | 45.4 kg | 1.0 mg | Tan |
Important Administration Notes:
- Frequency: This total daily dose can be given as a single pill once every 24 hours, or it can be divided in half and given every 12 hours (e.g., a 20 lb dog would get 0.1 mg every 12 hours instead of a single 0.2 mg dose).
- Maintenance: This chart represents the initial starting dose. Your veterinarian will adjust this up or down based on blood tests (TT4 concentrations) taken every 4 to 8 weeks until the perfect maintenance dose is established.
What Is Thyro-Tabs for Dogs?
Thyro-Tabs® is a prescription thyroid hormone replacement medication used to treat dogs and has been approved by the FDA to be used in dogs. Thyro-Tabs® contains a synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine sodium) that mimics the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) that is naturally produced in the dog’s body. Synthetic T4 is the same chemical as the normal thyroid hormone produced by a dog’s thyroid gland and is used to replace inadequate amounts of thyroid hormone in the dog that has been diagnosed as having hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) means the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone because of thyroid problems, an enlarged thyroid gland, some medical conditions or treatments. When a dog’s thyroid is low, it can impact the dog’s metabolism, energy, nerve and muscle function, skin and coat condition. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed by veterinarians based on blood tests and the dog’s signs and symptoms.
Thyro-Tabs medication is formulated to restore normal levels of thyroid hormone, aid in normal metabolism, increase energy and physical activity, and control the clinical symptoms of canine hypothyroidism. It comes in the form of an oral tablet and is part of the class of drugs called thyroid hormones. Other veterinary brands containing the same active ingredient (levothyroxine sodium) include ThyroKare™, Soloxine and Levocrine.
Thyro-Tabs is made at a strict FDA quality facility and is specifically formulated for veterinary use. Thyro-Tabs Canine drugs is indicated for thyroid hormone replacement therapy in dogs with hypothyroidism, although it may be used for other animal species (under veterinary supervision) and other situations in cats (under veterinary supervision).
Benefits of Thyro-Tabs for Dogs
Thyro-Tabs® is a prescription levothyroxine sodium (T-4) drug that is used for thyroid hormone replacement therapy in dogs with hypothyroidism. It replaces the missing T4 hormone, which will then help restore normal thyroid function and help maintain normal metabolism, energy production, growth and function of many body systems. Due to the thyroid hormones’ effect on virtually every organ, it is important to make sure that the levels are right for long-term health.
Some of the key benefits and advantages of Thyro-Tabs include:
- Effectively treats dogs with low thyroid function.
- Treats Canine Hypothyroidism related conditions.
- Contains a synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine sodium) which is the same as that naturally produced by the dog’s thyroid gland.
- Assists in normalizing thyroid hormone levels and helping with normal metabolic function.
- Regulates the growth & development, metabolism and working functioning of almost all the organs of the body.
- The only FDA-approved brand of T4 for dogs.
- The first canine levothyroxine tablet to meet the higher USP tablet standard.
- Provides a minimum 95% dose potency guarantee, helping ensure consistent dosing.
- Provides 24 months dose stability for reliable long term storage.
- Available in 9 different strengths which are color coded and scored for easier and more individualized dosing.
- Easy to take by mouth as a tablet.
- Ideally should be administered at the same time every day, either with or without food to reduce changes in serum TT4 levels from one day to the next.
- Can be dispensed in 120 count bottles and 1,000 count bottles for veterinary practices.
- Dispense Ready Packaging minimizes tablet counting and handling, freeing up time to spend with patients.
- Economical dispensing and less re-packaging.
- Made according to the FDA Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) quality standards that are enforced to assure uniform quality and reliability.
- Contains the same active ingredient as other vet levothyroxine products, such as Soloxine.
Possible Side Effects of Thyro-Tabs for Dogs
Side effects are rare and most dogs do well on Thyro-Tabs® (levothyroxine sodium) when given by the veterinarian at the correct dose if thyroid hormone is needed. But, some dogs can react negatively, particularly when the dosage is too much or too little or if the dog is sensitive to the drug. If you see any symptoms that you feel are unusual for your horse or that aren’t going away, contact your veterinarian.
Side effects may include:
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Weight loss or other weight changes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased thirst (polydipsia)
- Increased urination (polyuria)
- Lethargy, or abnormal tiredness
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
- Hair loss (alopecia), dermatitis, rash or skin irritation and itching (pruritus)
- Excess or insufficient levels of thyroxine (T4) in the blood.
- Appetite changes
- Sleep problems
- Change in personality or behaviour.
- Fever
- Cough
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness or drowsiness
While rare, there may be serious allergic reactions, which require immediate veterinary attention. If your dog develops any of the following symptoms, stop giving the medication and call for emergency help:
- Hives
- Facial, lip, or tongue swelling
- Trouble breathing or swollen throat
- Very itchy or allergic skin reactions.
If your dog does have any side effect that is unusual, persistent or worsening, do not stop the medication without your vet’s guidance and contact your vet as soon as possible.
Precautions When Using Thyro-Tabs for Dogs
Thyro-Tabs® (levothyroxine sodium) should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Taking these steps can insure a safe and effective management of hypothyroidism in dogs and minimize the chances of problems.
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Important precautions include:
- Thyro-Tabs dosage for dogs should not be used in dogs that have thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism) or uncorrected adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease/hypoadrenocorticism).
- If your dog is pregnant, has heart disease or has been diagnosed with Addison’s disease, let your veterinarian know as these may influence the treatment used.
- Care should be exercised when adjusting the initial dose of a dog with known underlying cardiac disease. Levothyroxine dose or cardiac medications may need to be adjusted based on clinical response to the levothyroxine.
- The bioavailability of different types of levothyroxine may vary. When your dog’s tablets are re-dispensed, check with your vet or pharmacist if they are different before changing brands.
- Levothyroxine therapy takes time to give clinical benefits and improvement may not be noticeable right away.
- Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis, such as, may occur with an overdose, which includes:
- Increased thirst (polydipsia)
- Increased urination (polyuria)
- Increased appetite (polyphagia)
- Reduced heat tolerance
- Hyperactivity
- Changes in personality or behaviour.
- Thyro-Tabs 0.7 mg tablets contain the colour FD&C Yellow 5 (tartrazine). This coloring agent is known to cause allergic-type reactions such as bronchial asthma in susceptible humans. Whether the same reactions happen among dogs or other animals is unknown.
Cautions for Thyro-Tabs for Dogs
Thyro-Tabs® (levothyroxine sodium) is a prescription drug and should only be used under the care of a licensed veterinarian. These are some measures to take to keep your dog safe while he is getting treatment.
Important cautions include:
- This drug can only be used by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian as per federal (USA) law.
- Tell your veterinarian if your dog has any known drug allergies or sensitivities before starting Thyro-Tabs.
- Rarely, allergic reactions to the levothyroxine or the other components of the tablet can develop, and they must be treated immediately.
- If your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction, such as those listed below, stop giving the medication and contact your vet or visit an emergency veterinary clinic immediately:
- Swelling of lips, tongue, face or airways
- Difficulty breathing
- Extensive hives or intense itching sensation.
- Vomiting
- Excessive salivation
- Agitation or unusual restlessness
How Does Thyro-Tabs (Levothyroxine Sodium Tablets) Work?
Thyro-Tabs® medicine is a synthetic thyroid hormone that is similar to levothyroxine (T4), a thyroid hormone naturally made by the thyroid gland. Thyroxine is important in so many aspects of regulating metabolism and other body processes.
In hypothyroidism, dogs do not make enough thyroid hormone and the thyroxine level in the blood is low. Thyro-Tabs is used to replace the missing thyroid hormone and to restore the thyroid hormone to normal levels to act as an effective thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This allows the dog’s body to function normally and allows the dog to be healthy if thyroid function is decreased.
Thyro-Tabs® Canine is labeled for the treatment of hypothyroidism in dogs but may be medically indicated by veterinarians for use in other animal species or for other medical conditions (off-label, or extra-label, use). Their use should never be without the professional judgment and supervision of a veterinarian.
What Is the Most Important Information You Should Know About Thyro-Tabs for Dogs?
Thyro-Tabs® (levothyroxine sodium) is a prescription drug for dogs that is FDA approved to treat hypothyroidism by replacing the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is available in 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.6 mg, 0.7 mg, 0.8 mg, and 1.0 mg tablet strengths to allow accurate, weight-based dosing.
Some of the most critical information for all dog owners is listed here:
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and all label directions when administering Thyro-Tabs.
- The normal starting dose is 0.1 mg for every 10 pounds of body weight (0.01 mg/lb), but your veterinarian may adjust this dose according to your dog’s weight, clinical condition, and blood tests.
- Typically administered once a day or twice a day every 12 hours as directed by your veterinarian.
- Give tablet at the same time each day and preferably consistently with or without food to ensure unchanged thyroid hormone levels.
- Dogs typically need more levothyroxine than do humans, cats, and many other species, never use a different dose than prescribed by a veterinarian.
- Periodic adjustments in dosage may be needed to provide the correct level of thyroid hormone, and frequent blood testing to check the level of T4 (thyroxine) is required.
- Many medications can interact with levothyroxine, so let your veterinarian know if your dog receives any other prescription medications, nonprescription drugs, vitamins, minerals, herbal supplements, or other medication.
- Canine hypothyroidism treatment is generally for life and most dogs will require a lifelong supply of Thyro-Tabs.
- Depending on how long your pet is taking the levothyroxine, your veterinarian will want to monitor your pet throughout the treatment for signs of osteoporosis (bone loss).
Drug & Food Interactions of Thyro-Tabs for Dogs
Some medicines, supplements and antacids can interact with thyro-Tabs® (levothyroxine sodium) and may affect the way thyro-Tabs® works or the chance of having side effects. Tell your veterinarian if your dog is taking any prescription or over-the-counter product, vitamin, mineral, herbal supplement or any other medication before starting treatment.
Some drug interactions that may occur are:
- Antidepressants
- Epinephrine
- Norepinephrine
- Warfarin
- Insulin
- Estrogens
- Digoxin
- Theophylline
- Ketamine
There are some drugs that can be taken in conjunction with Thyro-Tabs, but your veterinarian may need to adjust dosages and/or monitor your dog more closely to make sure the drug is safe and effective.
Important administration timing:
- If your dog is taking sucralfate (Carafate) or aluminum-containing antacids (Maalox, Mylanta etc.), give them at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after Thyro-Tabs, as they may decrease absorption of levothyroxine and thus prevent the medication from working.
If your dog shows any unusual symptoms after beginning any new medication while taking Thyro-Tabs, contact your veterinarian right away to discuss a possible drug interaction that needs to be explored.
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FAQs
How do I Store Thyro-Tabs Dosage?
Keep Thyro-Tabs at a controlled room temperature of between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Exposing to temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) is generally acceptable. Store securely, and with care to protect tablets from moisture and light. Never allow children or pets to have access to the medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Thyro-Tabs?
Contact veterinarian for specific advice if a dose is missed. You can give the dose you missed if you remember in many instances. If it is close to time for the next dose, however, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Never give two doses at the same time.
How long does it take for Thyro-Tabs to start working?
Many dogs will improve within 1-2 weeks of starting treatment. Improvements in body weight, coat quality and neurological signs, however, may take 8-12 weeks. Your veterinarian may take periodic blood tests to make sure the medication is working correctly.
What if my dog takes too much Thyro-Tabs?
Thyro-Tabs dosage for dogs has a relatively broad margin of safety, but a large overdose can result in agitation, seizures, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, excessive appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and excessive panting. If you think your pet may have overdosed, call your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison hotline right away.
How is Thyro-Tabs administered?
Thyro-Tabs is administered via the mouth as directed by your veterinarian. Ideally, the medication should be given at the same time each day and should be given as directed by your veterinarian (with or without food).
How does Thyro-Tabs work in dogs?
Thyro-Tabs is a supplement of synthetic thyroxine (thyroid hormone), which can be used to replace the thyroid hormone that is lacking in dogs with hypothyroidism. This aids in restoring the normal level of thyroid hormone and maintain good body functioning and metabolism.
Will Thyro-Tabs cure hypothyroidism?
No, Thyro-Tabs is not a cure for hypothyroidism. It is used to replace the missing thyroid hormone and helps to control the condition by relieving its symptoms. Most dogs will need treatment for life and regular check-ups with their veterinarian.
Why should blood tests be done on my dog while he is on Thyro-Tabs?
Thyroid hormone levels may be checked every 2-4 weeks as you increase or decrease the dosage. Periodic blood tests are used to assure the drug is safe and effective once the proper maintenance dose is determined.
Is there any risk of my other pets getting Thyro-Tabs from my dog’s poop?
Levothyroxine passes into stools and you should keep other pets away from the stool of a dog who is taking Thyro-Tabs. This helps to minimise the chance of accidental contact with medicine.
Key Takeaways
- Thyro-Tabs® is a prescription drug that has been approved by the FDA to treat hypothyroidism in dogs and contains the drug levothyroxine sodium.
- The suggested starting dose is 0.1mg per 10lbs (0.01mg/lb or 0.022mg/kg) of body weight, as prescribed by your veterinarian.
- Adhere to a fixed schedule for administration of medication, and consistently give with or without food to ensure consistent absorption.
- Blood testing is crucial to keep thyroid hormone (T4) levels in check and to adjust the amount of thyroid hormone needed.
- Most dogs show improvement in 1-2 weeks, the neurological signs, coat quality and weight take 8-12 weeks to improve.
- Side effects are rare at the proper dose but can be common at extremes of dosage.
- Thyro-Tabs drug should be stored at 68-77°F (20-25°C), and should be kept in a place where children and pets cannot reach it and kept out of light and moisture.
- Usually, dogs with hypothyroidism are treated for life with Thyro-Tabs, with periodic check-up with the veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
When used as directed by a veterinarian, Thyro-Tabs® dosage for dogs is a reliable and proven supplement to treat hypothyroidism in dogs. To get the most benefits and to help ensure the long-term health of your dog, it is important to not only dose correctly for your dog’s weight, but to also administer the thyroid hormone daily and to carefully monitor the levels of thyroid hormone in your dog’s blood.
Never change the dosage or stop the medication without veterinary advice. Most hypothyroid dogs can live a healthy, active and comfortable life with lifelong treatment and regular check-ups.
