Convenient access to Hypothyroidism Treatments With GP24.

Our prescription service costs €25

This service is available to patients anywhere in Republic of Ireland.

Yes - this service is based on the same patient-doctor confidentiality that you would expect in a face-to-face consultation.

If you’re not entirely sure about your condition and have not had a previous prescription, it is recommended that you first chat with our doctor using either our Video Consultation or Phone consultation services first.

Hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid, is a condition where your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to keep your body running properly. These hormones affect metabolism, energy levels, mood, heart rate, and more.

Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, depression, and sensitivity to cold. It often develops slowly and may go unnoticed without proper testing.

The most common cause is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis—an autoimmune disorder—but it can also result from iodine deficiency, medications, or thyroid surgery.

In Ireland, the most common cause of hypothyroidism is Autoimmune Thyroiditis, a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This immune response damages the gland, reducing its ability to produce vital thyroid hormones.

In some cases, this immune attack can cause the thyroid to swell—this is known as a goitre. When a goitre occurs in autoimmune thyroiditis, the condition is called Hashimoto’s disease.

While autoimmune thyroid issues are the leading cause, there are several other, less common causes of hypothyroidism:

• Thyroid damage from past surgery, radiation, or other thyroid treatments

• Iodine deficiency, though rare in Ireland, remains the leading global cause

• Side effects of medications that affect thyroid function

• Congenital hypothyroidism (present from birth)

• Pituitary gland dysfunction, which can disrupt the signals that regulate thyroid hormone production

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism or have a history of thyroid issues, our team at GP24 can help.

Hypothyroidism affects many systems in the body, so symptoms can be wide-ranging and easy to overlook. Because it slows down your metabolism, signs often develop gradually—sometimes over years.

The most common symptoms include:

• Ongoing fatigue or low energy

• Weight gain despite no change in diet

• Dry or rough skin

• Constipation

• Feeling cold all the time

• Low mood or lack of motivation

• Muscle aches and joint pain

• Hoarseness or a deeper voice

Other possible symptoms include:

• Reduced libido and fertility issues

• Irregular periods in women

• Memory problems or brain fog, especially in older adults

Everyone’s experience is different. Some may only notice subtle changes, while others have more pronounced symptoms.

You may be eligible to request hypothyroidism treatment through GP24.ie if you:

• Are over 18 years of age

• Have been previously diagnosed with hypothyroidism by a healthcare professional

• Need a repeat prescription for commonly prescribed hypothyroidism medication

Please note: This service is not suitable for initial diagnosis of hypothyroidism or for managing uncontrolled symptoms. It is advised to provide recent blood results and to get blood tests done yearly.

Treating hypothyroidism is essential for both your short-term wellbeing and long-term health.

Without treatment, an underactive thyroid can lead to ongoing symptoms like fatigue, low mood, weight gain, and brain fog—making everyday life more difficult.

More importantly, untreated hypothyroidism can raise your cholesterol levels, which increases the risk of heart disease and other serious complications over time.

The good news? With daily thyroid hormone replacement therapy, you can restore your hormone levels, reduce symptoms, and protect your overall health.

We prescribe levothyroxine (T4) tablets, the standard treatment for hypothyroidism. This medication replaces the thyroxine hormone your thyroid is no longer producing in sufficient amounts.

Levothyroxine is taken once daily, typically in the morning on an empty stomach, and in most cases, it’s a lifelong treatment. Your dose may need to be adjusted over time, especially in the early stages of treatment or if your health circumstances change.

To ensure your thyroid levels stay within a healthy range, it’s important to have your thyroid function checked once a year once stable—or more frequently if:

• You're experiencing ongoing symptoms

• You're planning a pregnancy or are currently pregnant

• Your medication has been recently changed

Your TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) level is the main marker used to determine whether your current dose is effective.

Most people tolerate levothyroxine (T4) well, but like any medication, side effects can occur—especially if the dose is too high.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea

• Headaches

• Flushing or excessive sweating

• Shakiness or hand tremors

• Unexplained weight loss

• Palpitations, chest discomfort, or irregular heartbeat

• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

• Feeling restless, anxious, or agitated

• A general sense of feeling unwell

These symptoms are often a sign that your dose may need adjustment, and they usually improve once your thyroid levels are stabilised.

It’s important to have regular blood tests and follow up with your provider to ensure you’re on the right dose. Always read the patient information leaflet included with your medication for a full list of possible side effects and safety advice.

Stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately. You can also contact us for follow-up support or guidance from one of our GPs.

Complete an Online Questionnaire: Fill out a secure, confidential medical assessment form detailing your symptoms and health history

Medical Review: An Irish-registered doctor will review your information to determine if treatment is appropriate for you

Prescription Issuance: If suitable, a prescription will be sent directly to your chosen Irish pharmacy via secure Healthmail

Yes. To ensure your safety, you’ll need to complete a confidential health questionnaire, which will be reviewed by a Doctor before any prescription is issued.

Your medical information is reviewed only by Irish Medical Council Registered Doctors and is handled in line with GDPR and Irish data protection laws.

Your prescription will be sent electronically via the Healthmail system to the Irish pharmacy of your choice - you can nominate any pharmacy in Ireland to receive your prescription

Once your medical questionnaire is submitted, prescriptions are typically issued within 24 hours.

(Please note this may vary on weekends)