Can You Drink Tea With Levothyroxine?

Answer

It is not recommended to drink tea at the same time as taking levothyroxine (brand name Synthroid).

Multiple studies show that tea (and other drinks such as coffee) can significantly alter the absorption levels of levothyroxine. This could potentially decrease the effectiveness of the medication and potentially cause therapeutic failure and symptoms of hypothyroidism, which include:

• Dry skin
• Lethargy
• Feeling of cold
• Hair loss

One study noted that absorption of levothyroxine is decreased on average by 33% when taken at the same time as coffee or tea.

According to the prescribing information for Synthroid, it should be taken as followed:

"Administer Synthroid [levothyroxine] as a single daily dose, on an empty stomach, one-half to one hour before breakfast."

All levothyroxine products should be taken with a full glass of water and you should not lie down for 30 minutes after taking your dose, to prevent irritation to the esophagus.

If you wish to drink the tea, be sure to either:

• Take levothyroxine at least 30 minutes before drinking the tea
• Take levothyroxine at least 4 hours after drinking the tea

Final Words

Thanks so much for reaching out to us! Please feel free to do so again in the future!