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Levothyroxine administration counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsLevothyroxine administration counsellingGPhC CRA

A 54-year-old woman is prescribed levothyroxine 50micrograms daily after raised TSH and symptoms of hypothyroidism. She takes calcium carbonate twice daily for osteoporosis prevention and omeprazole. She asks how to take the new medicine. What would you advise the patient?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Take levothyroxine consistently on an empty stomach and separate from calcium

Levothyroxine absorption is reduced by calcium salts and can be affected by inconsistent administration. Taking it consistently before food and separating from calcium supports stable thyroid replacement. The pharmacist should also explain that symptom improvement may take several weeks.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS