The absorption of levothyroxine in the gut is decreased when taking the hormone at the same time as calcium, iron and some foods and other drugs. Because of this, patients are usually instructed to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach 30-60 minutes before food intake to avoid erratic absorption of the hormone.

What happens if you eat right after taking thyroid medicine?

1. Taking Your Thyroid Medication With Meals and Snacks. The synthetic thyroid hormone won't be absorbed properly unless you take it on an empty stomach and wait 45 to 60 minutes afterward before eating, Bianco says.

Why is thyroid medicine taken in the morning?

Absorption of levothyroxine is approximately 70% to 80% and occurs in the small bowel. There is consensus that levothyroxine should be taken before breakfast to prevent interference of its intestinal uptake by food or other medications.