Final answer:
The drug the nurse is describing is levothyroxine (Synthroid), a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4) used to treat hypothyroidism. It is known for its uniform potency, cost-effectiveness, and once-daily dosing requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thyroid supplement the nurse is describing, which is relatively inexpensive, requires once-a-day dosing, and has a more uniform potency than other thyroid hormone replacement drugs, is likely levothyroxine (also known as Synthroid).
Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), which is the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is used to treat hypothyroidism. It is well-known for its stable potency and cost-effectiveness. The dosage for levothyroxine is precise and must align with the patient's thyroid levels, which are monitored through regular blood tests to ensure the correct therapeutic level is maintained.