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Is It Better Not To Take Thyroid Medicines With Other Drugs?

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Posted on Mon, 26 Oct 2015
Question: What is the reasoning for taking thyroid medicines(levothyroxin) on an empty stomach and waiting four hours before taking any other medicines?
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Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
60 minutes

Detailed Answer:
You do not have to wait for hours. Sixty minutes suffices.

This is because the absorption of XXXXXXX thyroxine is reduced by the presence of food and other medications,particularly calcium and iron. As a result, the blood levels of XXXXXXX thyroxine would go lower than intended. This will end up in under-dosing of the medication which will cause symptoms of 'hypothyroidism' to occur.

The goal is to ensure consistent medicine delivery so that steady state blood levels are maintained
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Shehzad Topiwala

Endocrinologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 1663 Questions

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Is It Better Not To Take Thyroid Medicines With Other Drugs?

Brief Answer: 60 minutes Detailed Answer: You do not have to wait for hours. Sixty minutes suffices. This is because the absorption of XXXXXXX thyroxine is reduced by the presence of food and other medications,particularly calcium and iron. As a result, the blood levels of XXXXXXX thyroxine would go lower than intended. This will end up in under-dosing of the medication which will cause symptoms of 'hypothyroidism' to occur. The goal is to ensure consistent medicine delivery so that steady state blood levels are maintained