Synthroid and White Blood Cell Count: What You Need to Know

Synthroid (levothyroxine sodium) is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine is a synthetic hormone that is identical to thyroxine, the natural hormone produced by the thyroid gland.

While Synthroid is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, including low white blood cell count (leukopenia). Leukopenia is a condition in which the body has low levels of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infection.

In rare cases, Synthroid can cause severe leukopenia, which can lead to serious infections. Symptoms of severe leukopenia include:

* Fever

* Chills

* Body aches

* Fatigue

* Weakness

* Confusion

* Difficulty breathing

* Bleeding

If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Synthroid, it's important to see your doctor right away.

Your doctor may order blood tests to check your thyroid levels and white blood cell counts if you're taking Synthroid. If you develop severe leukopenia, your thyroid medication dose may need to be reduced or stopped.