What Should I Know About Hyperactive Thyroid Medication?
By Holly Phillips, MD•
Hypothyroidism
woman placing medication pill in mouth and holding a glass of water
Hypothyroidism is a common condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t make as much thyroid hormone as the body needs. Some cases are reversible, many are not, in which case your doctor will likely prescribe a synthetic form of thyroid hormone medication, such as levothyroxine, to keep your thyroid levels stable.
The medication helps to level out your energy, keep your metabolism in balance, and even after just a few doses most people who had been suffering from low thyroid, feel much better.
A few tips – Thyroid hormone works best when taken at the exact same time every day. Using a pillbox or setting an alarm on your phone may make that easier.
Also, the medicine should be taken on an empty stomach - Because of this, you may find it easiest to take the medicine as soon as you wake up, and then have breakfast 45 minutes to an hour later.
Certain other medications and supplements can interfere with how well your thyroid medication is absorbed. Antacids, cholesterol drugs, and calcium and iron supplements should be taken at least 4 hours after your thyroid medicine. Also, foods high in calcium, like yogurt, milk, cheese, and kale should also be eaten in moderation.
And last but not least don’t forget to use the RxSaver App to get the best prices on your prescriptions. You can save up to 85%.
Holly Phillips, MD
Dr. Holly Phillips, a Board-Certified General Internist in private practice, is a journalist, author, television contributor, and medical expert for RxSaver. Featured regularly across multiple media outlets, Dr. Phillips first gained nationwide recognition as a Medical Contributor to CBS News and “Core Member” of the Dr. Oz Show. Frequently quoted in print, she has been a contributing editor for Prevention, and appeared in feature articles for Vogue, Self, and others. Dr. Phillips is the author of the book, “The Exhaustion Breakthrough,” published by Rodale. Dr. Phillips obtained her medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and trained at Lenox Hill Hospital. In practice, she addresses all Internal Medicine Conditions with a focus on preventive women’s health. Dr. Phillips is well versed in the foundations of complementary and alternative medicine and views these ideas as integral to the practice of medicine today. She lives in Manhattan with her husband, two young daughters and Pug.
The information on this site is generalized and is not medical advice. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard seeking advice or delay in seeking treatment because of something you have read on our site. RxSaver makes no warranty as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of this information.
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