Can I take Iron and Levothyroxine together?

Hierro y levotiroxina should not be taken at the same time as taking them together can significantly reduce the amount of thyroid hormone your body absorbs.

Por qué sucede esto

Iron binds to levothyroxine in the stomach and intestines, forming a complex that is too large for the body to absorb into the bloodstream. This means the medicine passes through your system without working.

• You should take these medicines at least 4 hours apart.

• Most people find it easiest to take their levothyroxine first thing in the morning (on an empty stomach) and wait until the afternoon or evening to take their iron supplement.

• Do not stop taking either medication without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Accidental overdose in children

Iron supplements are a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children. Keep them strictly out of reach and sight of children; even a small number of extra tablets can be fatal to a child.

Problemas cardíacos (por ejemplo, angina, insuficiencia cardíaca)

Si tiene una afección cardíaca, su dosis debe comenzar muy baja y aumentarse lentamente. Comuníquese con su médico de inmediato si experimenta dolor en el pecho o palpitaciones, ya que la levotiroxina aumenta la carga de trabajo en su corazón.

Interacción con suplementos (Calcio/Hierro)

No tome tabletas de calcio, suplementos de hierro ni multivitamínicos al mismo tiempo que la levotiroxina. Debe dejar un intervalo de al menos 4 horas entre estos suplementos y su levotiroxina para asegurar que el medicamento funcione.

Diabetes

La levotiroxina puede aumentar los niveles de azúcar en la sangre. Si tienes diabetes, debes controlar tu glucosa en sangre con más cuidado al comenzar o cambiar tu dosis, ya que puede ser necesario aumentar tu medicación para la diabetes.

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these medicines. While there is no direct 'danger' interaction, alcohol can irritate the stomach lining (already a risk with iron) and may interfere with the consistency of your thyroid hormone levels.

Tea and coffee (caffeine)

Tea and coffee contain compounds called tannins and polyphenols that significantly reduce the amount of iron your body can absorb. Avoid drinking these for at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking your iron supplement.

Drinking coffee at the same time as taking your levothyroxine can significantly reduce the amount of medicine your body absorbs. Wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking your tablet before drinking coffee.

Dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt)

Calcium in dairy products prevents iron from being absorbed properly. Do not take your iron supplement at the same time as dairy products. Leave a gap of at least 2 hours.

Whole-grain cereals and eggs

Phytic acid in whole grains and certain proteins in eggs can hinder iron absorption. It is best to take iron on an empty stomach, though you can have a small amount of fruit or vitamin C-rich juice to help absorption.

Soya (soy)

Soya can interfere with how levothyroxine is absorbed by the body. If you eat a lot of soya, your doctor may need to monitor your hormone levels more closely. Try to keep your soya intake consistent and avoid eating it close to the time you take your tablet.

Alga marina y algas

These foods are very high in iodine. Because levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone, high levels of iodine can interfere with your treatment and make your thyroid overactive or underactive.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Verificador de Interacciones de Medicamentos helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Descargo de responsabilidad

Esta información es solo para fines educativos generales y no debe considerarse como un sustituto del consejo médico profesional. Siempre consulte a su médico de cabecera, farmacéutico u otro profesional de la salud calificado antes de tomar decisiones sobre sus medicamentos. Las circunstancias individuales pueden variar, y solo un profesional de la salud que conozca su historial médico puede proporcionar orientación personalizada.