Dosing timing for thyroxine

Dosing timing for thyroxine

When is the best time to take thyroxine? Patients are generally told to take it on an empty stomach in the morning and wait at least 30 minutes before eating. A new study suggests that taking thyroxine at bedtime might be a better option. Over 6 months, 105 patients were randomized to take 1 capsule in the morning and 1 capsule at bedtime (one containing levothyroxine and the other a placebo), with a switch after 3 months. Taking levothyroxine at bedtime lowered thyrotropin levels and increased free thyroxine and total triiodothyronine levels (the primary outcome). Treatment did not change secondary outcomes including quality of life. The authors concluded that taking levothyroxine at bedtime is a good alternative to morning intake (Arch Intern Med 2010;170:1996-2003). This would likely benefit patients who find it difficult to wait 30 minutes to eat after taking their thyroxine each morning.