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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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When Should Levothyroxine Be Taken?

My sister's endocrinologist tells her to take her levothyroxine one hour before consuming any food or drink first thing in the a.m. .
My mom get's her's any old time of the day. . .any old way. . .with food/without food. . .doesn't matter.
Which way is right.
Wed, 30 Sep 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi there and thanks for asking us on HCM.

For maximum absorption, levothyroxine is best taken with a full glass of water at least an hour before breakfast. Also, this medicine should not be taken with the following medications:
1. antacids
2. anti obesity medicines like Orlistat
3. calcium supplements
4. iron supplements
5. anti-gas tablets that contain simethicone
6. resins that work to reduce cholesterol like Questran and Prevalite
7. bile acid sequastrant medicine like Colestid
8. medicines used to treat peptic ulcers of the sucralfate class (Carafate)

Taking this medicine together can decrease absorption. Levothyroxine is best taken 4 hours before the above medicines. I hope this advice helps. Thanks.

Dr Shabnam
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When Should Levothyroxine Be Taken?

Hi there and thanks for asking us on HCM. For maximum absorption, levothyroxine is best taken with a full glass of water at least an hour before breakfast. Also, this medicine should not be taken with the following medications: 1. antacids 2. anti obesity medicines like Orlistat 3. calcium supplements 4. iron supplements 5. anti-gas tablets that contain simethicone 6. resins that work to reduce cholesterol like Questran and Prevalite 7. bile acid sequastrant medicine like Colestid 8. medicines used to treat peptic ulcers of the sucralfate class (Carafate) Taking this medicine together can decrease absorption. Levothyroxine is best taken 4 hours before the above medicines. I hope this advice helps. Thanks. Dr Shabnam