Levothyroxine

A prescription thyroid hormone replacement used to treat hypothyroidism and certain thyroid cancers.

Medication

What it is

Levothyroxine sodium is FDA-approved as replacement therapy for adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older with primary, secondary, or tertiary hypothyroidism, and as an adjunct to surgery and radioiodine therapy in the management of thyrotropin-dependent well-differentiated thyroid cancer. It is not indicated for benign thyroid nodules, nontoxic diffuse goiter in iodine-sufficient patients, or transient hypothyroidism during recovery from subacute thyroiditis.

How it is commonly taken

The FDA label directs administering levothyroxine sodium as a single daily oral dose, on an empty stomach, one-half to one hour before breakfast.

Food and timing considerations

The FDA label recommends taking levothyroxine at least 4 hours apart from agents known to interfere with its absorption, including calcium and iron supplements and some antacids.

Known interaction categories

  • Use caution
  • Insufficient evidence
  • Monitor

Published interaction pages on this site

Sources

Last reviewed 2026-08-22

Medical information disclaimer: this information is general and educational. It does not diagnose conditions, prescribe treatment, or determine whether a combination is safe for you personally. Follow your prescription label and ask a pharmacist or clinician before starting, stopping, or combining products. Full disclaimer.