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Levothyroxine administration — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyEndocrine TherapeuticsLevothyroxine administrationGPhC CRA

A 45-year-old woman starts levothyroxine 50 micrograms daily for hypothyroidism. She takes ferrous sulfate for iron deficiency and asks whether they can be taken together at breakfast. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Take levothyroxine on an empty stomach and separate it from iron by several hours

Levothyroxine absorption is reduced by iron salts, calcium and some other medicines. It is usually taken on an empty stomach with separation from interacting medicines. Consistent administration helps stabilise thyroid function tests and symptoms.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS