I was on a regimen of Levoxyl for many years (15+), but now it has been recalled and my doctor prescribed the Synthroid. I'm just wondering about the drug/food interactions, one of which is calcium and it also says "high-fiber" foods. I have increased my fiber intake in the past 5 years so now this concerns me. How much is too much?
With Synthroid it states to not eat "high-fiber" foods... what is classified as high fiber?
Question posted by Humingbird on 6 July 2013
Last updated on 7 July 2013
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Answers
Hello. It is going to be a year or so until we get back the other medication. Mistake at the factory it seems.
Calcium is still taken but not within 4 hours of the thyroid medication. Since you take it first thing in the morning before breakfast, I take calcium after lunch with another calcium containing food like dairy.
High fiber is pretty much the same thing. If your bowels are working properly, no constipation and no diarrhea, then you are getting enough fiber. What they are saying is to not follow with breakfast half an hour later with bran muffins and whole grains. A couple slices of toast is fine. Just not lots of whole grains with lots of fruit or veggies. Save that for a bit later. It is about absorption of the thyroid medication.
Timing is the issue. Enjoy what you like. Just those brief exceptions about timing. Karen. Read on:
levothyroxine ↔ multivitamins with minerals
Moderate Drug Interaction
Using multivitamin with minerals together with levothyroxine may decrease the effects of levothyroxine. You should separate the administration of levothyroxine and multivitamin with minerals by at least 4 hours. If your doctor does prescribe these medications together, you may need a dose adjustment or special test to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your
levothyroxine ↔ food
Moderate Food Interaction
The timing of meals relative to your levothyroxine dose can affect absorption of the drug. Therefore, levothyroxine should be taken on a consistent schedule with regard to time of day and relation to meals so as to maintain steady blood levels. In addition, absorption of levothyroxine may be decreased by foods such as soybean flour, cotton seed meal, walnuts, dietary fiber, calcium, and calcium fortified juices. These foods should be avoided within several hours of dosing if possible.
Thank you for helping me understand this.
It's funny, because of the switch, I decided to check the Levoxyl web site regarding the calcium, fiber, walnuts, etc. and they also list these precautions but not as prevalent as Synthroid does... which is odd to me. I am going to call my doctor to get a better understanding... BUT you have helped me tremendously!
You are welcome. By the way, I love humming birds. So pretty and tiny. But they do have a fierce attitude when protecting their territory. Good trait to have with health issues. Take care, Karen
Thanks... the best to you also...
Mary
Related topics
levoxyl, synthroid, interaction, doctor, food, thyroid, calcium
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