Levothyroxine interacts with some medications and foods

Levothyroxine may interact with a variety of drugs. Levothyroxine's effectiveness may be decreased by some drugs, including phenobarbital, omeprazole (Prilosec), and antacids. And this may indicate that your thyroid hormone intake needs to be increased. Beta-blockers and amiodarone (Pacerone), however, may increase the potency of its effects. Levothyroxine dosage reduction might be necessary as a result.

Levothyroxine can also interact with specific foods (such as coffee, grapefruit juice, and alcohol) and dietary supplements (like iron, calcium, and vitamin C). They obstruct the body's ability to absorb levothyroxine effectively. It is advised to take it empty-handed, preferably in the morning 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast or at bedtime at least 4 hours after eating or taking supplements.

The benefit of levothyroxine is that your healthcare provider can monitor your thyroid lab results and adjust the dose as needed. However, it is critical to maintain as much consistency as possible with your diet, other medications, and the timing of your levothyroxine.