How to Properly Take Thyroid Medication
Know all about thyroid medication, its importance, and how to take it in the right way.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 4th Aug, 2025
Introduction
If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid condition like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), your doctor may have prescribed thyroid medication. Taking these medications correctly is crucial for managing your symptoms and keeping your thyroid hormone levels balanced.
In this article, we’ll explain:
- Why is thyroid medication important?
- How to take it the right way?
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Tips for better absorption
- When to consult your doctor?
Why Is Thyroid Medication Important?
Your thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate your metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, digestion, and mood. When it doesn’t function properly, you may experience:
Fatigue or weakness
Weight gain or loss
Hair loss or dry skin
Mood swings or depression
Irregular heartbeats
Thyroid medication, like levothyroxine for hypothyroidism or anti-thyroid drugs for hyperthyroidism, helps restore hormone balance. However, taking it incorrectly can reduce its effectiveness.
How to Take Thyroid Medication the Right Way?
1. Take It on an Empty Stomach
Thyroid medication works best when taken 30-60 minutes before breakfast or any other food. Food, especially calcium and iron-rich foods, can interfere with absorption.
Best practice: Take it first thing in the morning with a glass of water.
2. Avoid Certain Foods & Drinks
Some foods and beverages can block thyroid medication absorption:
For coffee or tea, wait at least 30-60 minutes after taking the pill.
Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt
High-fibre foods like whole grains and bran
Iron or calcium supplements should be taken at least 4 hours apart
3. Be Consistent with Timing
Taking your medication at the same time every day helps maintain steady hormone levels. If you forget a dose:
Take it as soon as you remember if it’s close to your usual time.
If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one (don’t double up).
4. Don’t Take It with Other Medications
Some medicines can interfere with thyroid medication, including:
Antacids (for acidity)
Cholesterol-lowering drugs
Birth control pills
Certain antidepressants
Ask your doctor about the best time to take other medications.
5. Store It Properly
Keep your thyroid medication in a cool, dry place (not in the bathroom, where humidity can affect it).
Consult endocrinology for Personalised Advice
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Follow the guidelines below for a better experience and results
Taking it with food or coffee
Reduces absorption.
Skipping doses frequently
Leads to unstable hormone levels.
Changing brands without consulting a doctor
Different brands may have slight variations in dosage.
Not getting regular blood tests
Thyroid levels need monitoring.
Tips for Better Absorption & Effectiveness
Stay hydrated
Helps the pill dissolve properly.
Wait before lying down
Stay upright for 30 minutes after taking it.
Follow up with blood tests
Your doctor may adjust the dose based on results.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eat a balanced diet, exercise, and manage stress.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
If you experience:
No improvement in symptoms, including fatigue, weight changes, and mood swings
New or worsening side effects like palpitations, anxiety, hair loss
Difficulty remembering doses
Need for dosage adjustments
It’s important to get regular thyroid function tests (T3, T4, TSH) to ensure your medication is working correctly.
Final Thoughts
Taking thyroid medication properly is key to managing your condition effectively. By following these simple steps, you can ensure better absorption, fewer side effects, and improved overall health.
Consult endocrinology for Personalised Advice
Consult endocrinology for Personalised Advice
Dr. Debashis Nayak
Endocrinologist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine), PG Diploma ( Diabetes & Endocrinology )
Rourkela
Apollo Hospitals, Rourkela, Rourkela
Dr. Shruthi B
Endocrinologist
20 Years • MBBS,MD ( GEN MED) DM (ENDOCRIONOLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Mary Susan K S
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Ahmed Sayeed
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
26 Years • MBBS, M.D (GENERAL MEDICINE), MRCP (UK)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
(25+ Patients)
