The Best Time to Take Your Thyroid Medication
Maximizing the absorption of your daily Thyroxine pill
Levothyroxine (Eltroxin, Thyronorm) is the standard treatment for hypothyroidism. However, it is a very finicky medication. Even small changes in how you take it can drastically affect how much of the hormone your body actually absorbs.
The Golden Rule: Empty Stomach
Thyroid medication must be taken on an completely empty stomach. The optimal time is first thing in the morning, immediately after waking up. You must wait at least 45 to 60 minutes before eating breakfast or drinking milk/tea/coffee.
Beware of Iron and Calcium
Certain supplements are notorious for blocking the absorption of thyroxine. If you take Calcium supplements, Iron pills, or antacids (like Pan-D), you must separate them from your thyroid medication by at least 4 hours.
Consistency is Key
Take your pill at roughly the same time every day. If you forget to take it in the morning, take it as soon as you remember. If a whole day has passed, do not double your dose the next day unless instructed by your endocrinologist.