Thyroid Extract - Armour Thyroid (Levothyroxine, Liothyronine) Interaction
Herbal: Thyroid Extract
Drug: Levothyroxine, Liothyronine
Brand names:
Armour Thyroid
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Nov 03, 2023
Interaction Details
Levothyroxine, Liothyronine is classified as belonging to the following category: Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Theoretically, thyroid extract might increase the effects and adverse effects of levothyroxine.
Thyroid extract contains triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Taking thyroid extract increases blood levels of T3 and T4, in some cases to abnormally high levels.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction 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
- Gerard, P., Malvaux, P., and De Visscher, M. Accidental poisoning with thyroid extract treated by exchange transfusion. Arch Dis Child 1972;47(256):981-982.
- Rees-Jones RW, Larsen PR. Triiodothyronine and thyroxine content of desiccated thyroid tablets. Metabolism 1977;26(11):1213-1218.
- Jackson IM, Cobb WE. Why does anyone still use desiccated thyroid USP? Am J Med 1978;64(2):284-8.
- Jha S, Waghdhare S, Reddi R, Bhattacharya P. Thyroid storm due to inappropriate administration of a compounded thyroid hormone preparation successfully treated with plasmapheresis. Thyroid. 2012;22(12):1283-6.
Interaction Details
Levothyroxine, Liothyronine is classified as belonging to the following category: Oral Drugs
Food and medications can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption. Some foods, particularly those high in fiber or containing certain minerals like calcium or iron, can bind to thyroid hormones and reduce their absorption in the digestive tract. Additionally, taking thyroid medications with certain drugs, like antacids or calcium supplements, can hinder the effectiveness of the thyroid medication, necessitating adjustments in dosage or timing. Prescription thyroid medications, such as Synthroid, are recommended to be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food and other medications, for optimal absorption.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
LikelyWell-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
Thyroid Extract Overview
Thyroid extract supplements are designed to support thyroid function. They are derived from animal thyroid gland tissue and may contain dried and/or ground raw tissue or extracts from these tissues. These supplements are rich in both triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), natural thyroid hormones. People with thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, may use them to help regulate hormone levels and alleviate symptoms like fatigue and weight gain. Their use is controversial due to inconsistent dosages and the absence of standardization.
Thyroid Extract - More Interactions
Thyroid Extract interacts with 1987 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. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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