Levoxyl is a thyroid hormone replacement taken by people with an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism is most commonly caused by an autoimmune response that triggers an inflammation of the thyroid gland, although it can also be caused by a birth defect, certain medications or as part of the treatment for hyperthyroidism. Some vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, can stop your body from absorbing Levoxyl and should not be take at the same time.
Underactive Thyroid
Your thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism -- the speed in which your body uses energy and oxygen. When thyroid function slows, so does your heart rate and metabolism, and you may have an increased sensitivity to cold, dry skin and brittle hair or nails. Older women with a family history of thyroid problems have the highest risk for hypothyroidism. Taking replacement thyroid hormone is the common treatment for hypothyroidism, but it can take several weeks to find the correct dose and allow Levoxyl to build up in your body.
Levothyroxine
Levoxyl is a trademarked name for the T4 thyroid hormone replacement drug levothyroxine, also sold as Unithroid, Synthroid and Tirosint. In general, Levoxyl is a pill that should be taken once daily, on an empty stomach, usually in the morning. Always follow your doctors' directions for taking medication. Avoid any substance that can interfere with the absorption of your thyroid medication. According to the Mayo Clinic, this includes calcium, iron, magnesium, aluminum and some medications that treat high cholesterol and ulcers.
Calcium and Levoxyl
Levoxyl is designed to pass through your stomach and be absorbed in your intestines. Calcium supplements bind to Levoxyl in the digestive tract, preventing the hormone replacement from being absorbed. There is no need to stop taking your calcium supplements, but you must wait at least four hours after taking your Levoxyl. This wait time allows your body to fully absorb the thyroid hormone without interference. This same four-hour window is also needed for iron, aluminum and magnesium.
Other Sources of Calcium
Calcium supplements may be taken in addition to dietary calcium. Calcium-rich foods include yogurt, milk, cheese and fortified cereals. You do not need to wait four hours after taking Levoxyl to eat calcium-rich foods. It's commonly advised to wait one hour after taking Levoxyl before eating. Your recommended daily allowance of calcium varies by age and gender, but adults ages 19 to 50 need about 1,000 mg daily. Women over 50 need 1,200 mg, and men over 70 need 1,200. Teenagers need 1,300 mg of calcium daily.
References
- National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service; Hypothyroidism; May 2008
- MayoClinic.com; Hypothyroidism Diet: Can Certain Foods Increase Thyroid Function?; Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.; November 2010
- Drugs.com; Levoxyl; April 2010
- eMedTV.com; Levoxyl Drug Interactions; Kristi Monson, PharmD; August 2008
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements:Calcium
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