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Levothyroxine and calcium — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsLevothyroxine and calciumGPhC CRA

A patient taking levothyroxine has started calcium carbonate for osteoporosis. They take both at 7 am and their TSH is now high. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: D — Separate calcium from levothyroxine administration

Calcium salts reduce levothyroxine absorption and may cause hypothyroid control to worsen. The doses should be separated according to guidance and levothyroxine taken consistently. The prescriber may need to recheck thyroid function after correcting administration. Calcium is not a replacement for thyroid hormone.

Reference: BNF