Coffee - Levothyroxine Interaction Details

Interaction Details

Levothyroxine is classified as belonging to the following category: Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Coffee can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine.
In some patients, coffee can reduce levothyroxine absorption, possibly through the formation of non-absorbable complexes. A pharmacokinetic study in these patients found that 25-30 mL of espresso coffee consumed with levothyroxine tablets delayed the time to peak plasma levels by 38-43 minutes, reduced the peak plasma level (Cmax) by 19% to 36%, and reduced the area under the curve (AUC) by 27% to 36%. Coffee consumed one hour after levothyroxine did not affect absorption. It is not known whether this interaction occurs with other types of coffee. Tell patients to avoid drinking coffee at the same time that they take their levothyroxine, and for up to an hour afterwards.

Interaction Rating

Moderate

Likelihood of Occurrence

Possible

Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists

References

Benvenga S. Bartolone L, Pappalardo MA, et al. Altered intestinal absorption of L-thyroxine caused by coffee. Thyroid 2008;18:293-301.

Levothyroxine Overview

Levothyroxine is used to treat hypothyroidism (condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone). It is also used with surgery and radioactive iodine therapy to treat thyroid cancer. Levothyroxine is in a class of medications called hormones. It works by replacing thyroid hormone that is normally produced by the body.
Without thyroid hormone, your body cannot function properly, which may result in poor growth, slow speech, lack of energy, excessive tiredness, constipation, weight gain, hair loss, dry, thick skin, increased sensitivity to cold, joint and muscle pain, heavy or irregular menstrual periods, and depression. When taken correctly, levothyroxine reverses these symptoms.

See More Information Regarding Levothyroxine

Coffee - More Interactions

Coffee interacts with 585 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.

Major	The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur.
Moderate	Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur.
Minor	Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction.
Unknown	No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available.