Brief Answer:
It doesn't affect the TSH

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXX,

Welcome back to HCM. I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Missing a single tablet won't affect the TSH value which is routinely used to assess thyroid function. The T4 and T3 can be slightly lower, but this will not change the treatment. So you can proceed with the test tomorrow.

One practical tip: If you miss a tablet you can do 2 things:
1. Take the tablet on the same day 4 hours after a meal and 1 hour before next meal. (Example: 4 hour after lunch and 1 hour before dinner. That 5 hours you should take no food or drinks other than water
2. You can take two tablets the next day morning empty stomach.

This flexibility is because the thyroid hormone has a long half life so it will stay in blood for days, and missing a tablet for 1 day wont affect blood levels, if you take that dose later.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.

With warm regards,
Dr Ajish TP (MD,DM)
Consultant Endocrinologist.

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Brief Answer:
1 hour after tablets you can take food or drinks

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX,

Thyroid tablets are taken in empty stomach because if take with food, tea or coffee, it will decrease the absorption of tablet. Things to follow while taking thyroid medications are:

1. Tablet should be stored in a sun protected area
2. Take in empty stomach (at least 4 hours of fasting)
3. Take tablet with plain water
4.Tea, coffee and other liquids after 1/2 hour of taking tablet
5. Solid food (breakfast) after 1 hour

Hope this will clear your doubts

Regards
Dr Ajish TP

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