When should levothyroxine be taken for optimal absorption?

Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. This means that it should ideally be taken at least 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast or any other medications. The reason for this timing is that food can interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine, leading to less effective treatment of hypothyroidism. Specifically, the presence of certain types of food, especially those high in calcium or iron, can bind with levothyroxine in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing its bioavailability and preventing the patient from receiving the full therapeutic benefit of the medication.

Taking levothyroxine on an empty stomach ensures that it can be absorbed properly and used effectively by the body. This is particularly important for individuals who rely on this medication to maintain healthy thyroid hormone levels.