Taking Thyroid Medicine Properly
Simple Tips for Maximizing the Effectiveness of Thyroid Medication
How you take your thyroid medication is an important part of treating your disease. Follow these simple tips for taking your thyroid medication properly.
According to The Thyroid Foundation of America, between 20-25% of the U.S. population has a predisposed "tendency toward an autoimmune disorder", primarily hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Fortunately a majority of thyroid diseases can be easily and effectively managed by the use of medication. The most common thyroid disease, hypothyroidism is treated by a synthetic thyroid hormone, typically Levothyroxine.
While medication can greatly reduce the unpleasant effects of hypothyroidism, if not taken properly the effects can persist and your condition can worsen. Knowing how to properly take your thyroid medication, including dosage instructions and potential interactions, is a vital part of being an educated patient. Here are some helpful tips for maximizing the effectiveness of your medication:
1. Time Your Dosing Consistently Around Your Meals. Generally, thyroid medication should not be taken within two hours following a meal and one hour prior to eating. It is also important that you take your medication at the same time every day. For this reason, it is recommended that you either take your dose first thing in the morning or right before bed, as this makes it easier to maintain a constant routine.
2. Inform Your Doctor of Other Medications and Supplements Your Are Currently Taking. Prescription drugs such as antidepressants, amphetamines and over the counter cold medication, as well as the herbal supplement St. John's Wort can all have adverse interactions with thyroid medication. It is important that your prescribing doctor knows everything you take on a daily basis, to avoid any potentially severe problems. If you have a difficult time remembering all the medications and supplements you ingest, keep a running list and bring it to your next doctor's appointment.
3. Watch Your Dietary Intake. Not only do other medications have the potential to offset the effects of thyroid medication, but so does your diet. Foods high in iron, calcium and soy should not be taken in close conjunction with your medication; this also includes any vitamins you might take. These nutrients can neutralize the synthetic thyroid hormone in your medication and render it ineffective.
4. Do Not Miss a Dose. Because your body is no longer naturally producing its own thyroid hormone, it is imperative that you take your medication every day. For this reason, you want to always have an ample amount of pills on hand, to prevent yourself from running out. As soon as you notice you are running low, fill your prescription. Do not wait until you have a day or two worth of pills left. Always be prepared and keep enough medication on hand, barring unforeseen circumstances.
By following these simple guidelines, you can be your own best advocate when it comes to treating your thyroid disorder. For more information on proper dosing of thyroid medication, consult your endocrinologist. The Hormone Foundation's website as well as The American Thyroid Association also offer useful resources for patients with thyroid disease.
