Clinical effects of accidental levothyroxine ingestion in children
L. K. Golightly, S. C. Smolinske, K. W. Kulig, K. M. Wruk, C. J. Gelman, B. H. Rumack and C. H. Linden
Forty-one children, aged 1 to 5 years, who accidentally ingested
levothyroxine sodium were studied. Symptoms possibly associated with the
ingestion occurred in 11 patients (27%). These symptoms (tachycardia,
hyperactive behavior, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, diaphoresis, and flushing)
were categorized as minor and all resolved without treatment. Because
observed effects were generally mild and often unrelated to either
estimated amounts of hormone consumed or serum thyroxine levels, a
conservative approach to patient treatment is recommended in cases of
levothyroxine ingestion in children.
