What Is Tirosint?

Tirosint is a brand-name Levothyroxine Sodium gel capsule used to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and certain types of thyroid cancer.

Made by IBSA Pharma (Institut Biochimique SA), Tirosint stands out from other Levothyroxine products because of its unique formulation. Unlike standard Levothyroxine tablets — which contain multiple inactive ingredients including dyes, fillers, and binders — Tirosint capsules contain only three inactive ingredients: gelatin, glycerin, and water. This minimal formulation may offer more consistent absorption, making it a preferred choice for patients with sensitivities or absorption issues.

Tirosint is not a controlled substance. It's available by prescription only and comes in two forms:

• Tirosint Capsules (gel caps) — available in 12 strengths from 13 mcg to 200 mcg
• Tirosint-SOL (oral solution) — available in 15 strengths from 13 mcg to 200 mcg

What Is Tirosint Used For?

Tirosint is FDA-approved for two main uses:

1. Hypothyroidism

The primary use of Tirosint is replacement therapy for hypothyroidism — a condition where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. This includes:

• Primary hypothyroidism — caused by problems with the thyroid gland itself (the most common type, often from Hashimoto's thyroiditis)
• Secondary hypothyroidism — caused by problems with the pituitary gland
• Tertiary hypothyroidism — caused by problems with the hypothalamus

Tirosint is approved for adults and children aged 6 years and older.

2. Thyroid Cancer Management

Tirosint is also used as an adjunct to surgery and radioiodine therapy for the management of thyrotropin-dependent well-differentiated thyroid cancer. In these cases, it helps suppress TSH to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

To learn more about how it works, see our guide on how Tirosint works.

How Is Tirosint Taken?

Tirosint should be taken as follows:

• Timing: Take once daily on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before breakfast
• Method: Swallow the capsule whole — do not cut, crush, or chew
• Consistency: Take at the same time every day for best results
• Separation: Wait at least 4 hours before or after taking calcium, iron, antacids, or other medications that interfere with absorption

Typical Dosing

The average full replacement dose for adults is approximately 1.6 mcg per kilogram of body weight per day. For a 150-pound (70 kg) adult, that works out to roughly 100-125 mcg per day.

However, dosing is highly individual. Your doctor will determine your starting dose based on:

• Your age and weight
• The severity of your hypothyroidism
• Whether you have heart disease or other conditions
• Your current TSH and thyroid hormone levels

Elderly patients and those with heart conditions typically start at a much lower dose — 12.5 to 25 mcg per day — with gradual increases every 6-8 weeks based on lab results.

Tirosint capsules come in these strengths: 13, 25, 50, 75, 88, 100, 112, 125, 137, 150, 175, and 200 mcg.

Who Should Not Take Tirosint?

Tirosint is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take Tirosint if you have:

• Uncorrected adrenal insufficiency — your adrenal glands must be treated with corticosteroids first
• Untreated thyrotoxicosis (overactive thyroid)
• Hypersensitivity to Levothyroxine or any capsule component (gelatin, glycerin)
• Acute myocardial infarction (recent heart attack)

Important: Tirosint should never be used for weight loss. The FDA boxed warning states that thyroid hormones can cause serious or life-threatening toxicity when used for weight reduction, especially in combination with sympathomimetic amines (stimulant weight-loss drugs).

For details about potential interactions, read our guide on Tirosint drug interactions. For side effect information, see Tirosint side effects.

How Much Does Tirosint Cost?

Tirosint is a brand-name medication, and it's priced accordingly:

• Cash price: $150 to $250 per 30 capsules, depending on the strength and pharmacy
• With insurance: Coverage varies widely. Many insurers require prior authorization or step therapy (trying generic Levothyroxine tablets first). If covered, Tirosint is often placed on Tier 3 with higher copays.
• Generic option: An authorized generic Levothyroxine capsule (by YARAL Pharma) is available and may cost less. Standard generic Levothyroxine tablets cost $4-$20 for 30 tablets.

Ways to Save

There are several programs to help reduce the cost of Tirosint:

• Tirosint Copay Savings Card: Reduces your cost to as low as $25 for a 30-day supply or $60 for a 90-day supply
• Tirosint Direct Program: Mail-order pricing at $65/month or $170 for 90 days
• IBSA Patient Assistance Program: Provides Tirosint free to eligible patients based on income and insurance status

For the full breakdown, see our guide on how to save money on Tirosint.

Final Thoughts

Tirosint is a well-regarded Levothyroxine formulation that offers a cleaner option for patients who need thyroid hormone replacement. Its minimal inactive ingredients, consistent absorption, and multiple dosage forms make it a valuable choice — especially for patients with sensitivities, absorption problems, or those who want a simpler formulation.

If you have a Tirosint prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy with it in stock near you.