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Levothyroxine
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
General information only, not medical advice, and no doses. Read the leaflet in your pack and ask a pharmacist about your own situation, other medicines, pregnancy or any health condition.
At a glance
| Generic name | Levothyroxine (thyroid hormone) |
|---|---|
| Type | Thyroid hormone replacement |
| Commonly used for | An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). |
| With food? | Taken on an empty stomach; keep it well apart from calcium, iron and some foods and drinks that reduce how much is absorbed. |
| Alcohol | No direct interaction with the occasional drink. |
| Timing | Usually first thing in the morning, about 30–60 minutes before breakfast, at the same time each day. |
Food and drink
Taken on an empty stomach; keep it well apart from calcium, iron and some foods and drinks that reduce how much is absorbed. No direct interaction with the occasional drink.
When to take it
Usually first thing in the morning, about 30–60 minutes before breakfast, at the same time each day.
Good to know
The dose is fine-tuned with blood tests, so take it consistently and do not change it yourself. If anything about your own use is unclear, a pharmacist can advise for free.
Other common medicines
Paracetamol
Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever.
Ibuprofen
Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
Aspirin
Pain and fever at normal doses; a low daily dose is used, only on medical advice, to reduce clotting risk.
Naproxen
Pain and inflammation, including muscle and joint pain and period pain; it is longer-acting than ibuprofen.
Omeprazole
Heartburn, acid reflux and stomach or gut ulcers.
Loratadine
Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives.
Source: General medicine information paraphrased from standard patient-information-leaflet guidance. Always read the leaflet in your pack. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is Levothyroxine used for?
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
Can I drink alcohol with Levothyroxine?
No direct interaction with the occasional drink.
Should I take Levothyroxine with food?
Taken on an empty stomach; keep it well apart from calcium, iron and some foods and drinks that reduce how much is absorbed.
See the pattern over time
TempoLife logs symptoms, food and sleep, so you can bring a clear picture to your pharmacist or doctor.