Thyroid hormone replacement
Levothyroxine in the United States: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Levothyroxine in the United States under FDA (Food and Drug Administration): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in USD. Levothyroxine belongs to the Thyroid hormone replacement class.
- Regulator
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
- Currency
- USD
About Levothyroxine
Levothyroxine is approved for hypothyroidism of any cause (Hashimoto thyroiditis, post-thyroidectomy, post-radioiodine, congenital), goitre and TSH suppression after differentiated thyroid cancer. In the US, most prescription medications require a written or e-prescription from a licensed prescriber. A handful of formerly-prescription medications have moved to OTC after FDA review.
Mechanism and action
Levothyroxine replaces deficient endogenous thyroxine, which is converted in tissues to the active hormone triiodothyronine (T3) by deiodinase enzymes.
Brands and generics in the United States
In the United States, Levothyroxine is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. US pharmacies — both chain (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) and independent — dispense Rx medications under state pharmacy board oversight. Pharmacist consultation is encouraged at pickup. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local FDA (Food and Drug Administration) equivalence rules, and the price difference in USD is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online prescription fulfilment in the US is well-regulated through state-licensed mail-order and tele-prescribing services. Importing prescription medication for personal use is restricted under federal law. For Levothyroxine specifically, the legal online options in the United States depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
Frequently asked questions
Is Levothyroxine available in the United States? ▾
Yes — Levothyroxine and its brands are available in the United States through pharmacies authorised by FDA (Food and Drug Administration), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Levothyroxine in the United States? ▾
In the US, most prescription medications require a written or e-prescription from a licensed prescriber. A handful of formerly-prescription medications have moved to OTC after FDA review. The exact status of Levothyroxine (Rx or OTC) is determined by FDA (Food and Drug Administration); most active ingredients in the Thyroid hormone replacement class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Levothyroxine cost in the United States? ▾
The price in USD depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Levothyroxine in the United States
Levothyroxine in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.