Drug interactions between levothyroxine and Xenical
| Results for the following 2 drugs: |
|---|
| levothyroxine |
| Xenical (orlistat) |
Interactions between your selected drugs
levothyroxine ↔ orlistat
Applies to:levothyroxine and Xenical (orlistat)
ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Orlistat may interfere with the gastrointestinal absorption of levothyroxine and other thyroid hormones. The exact mechanism of interaction is unknown. In one case report, symptomatic hypothyroidism occurred within two weeks following the initiation of orlistat in a patient with thyroid cancer who had been receiving levothyroxine for 18 months to suppress thyroid-stimulating hormone production after a total thyroidectomy and radioiodine ablation. The patient complained of tiredness, lethargy and cold intolerance, and thyroid function tests revealed profound hypothyroidism. Symptoms improved two weeks following the discontinuation of orlistat and an increase of levothyroxine dosage from 250 to 300 mcg/day. Laboratory values returned to normal another two weeks later.
MANAGEMENT: Orlistat and oral thyroid hormone preparations should be administered at least 4 hours apart. Close clinical and laboratory monitoring of thyroid function is recommended. Patients should be advised to contact their physician if they experience symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue, muscle weakness or pain, joint stiffness, depression, constipation, hoarseness, weight gain, hair loss, brittle nails, pale or dry skin, cold intolerance, memory problems, confusion, or menstrual irregularities.
See also...
Drug Interaction Classification
The classifications below are a guideline only. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific patient is difficult to determine using this tool alone given the large number of variables that may apply.
| Major | Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit. |
| Moderate | Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances. |
| Minor | Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan. |
Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
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