Hypothyroidism — a "lazy" thyroid — is very common, especially in women, and is treated simply and effectively with levothyroxine (synthetic T4 hormone). The tricky part is not the medication itself, but how you take it: its absorption depends heavily on the timing and context of administration. Here are the rules, for information only.
What it is and why
When the thyroid no longer produces enough hormones, metabolism slows down: fatigue, feeling cold, weight gain, dry skin, constipation. Levothyroxine replaces exactly the missing hormone. Common brands in Romania: Euthyrox, L-Thyroxin. Treatment is usually long-term, sometimes lifelong, and is reimbursed by CNAS.
How to take it correctly — the part that matters most
Levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning, on an empty stomach, with water, 30–60 minutes before breakfast or coffee. Coffee, calcium, iron and some supplements reduce its absorption — which is why you should keep a gap of a few hours from them. Consistency matters: take it the same way every day.
Dose and TSH monitoring
The dose is strictly individual (it depends on weight, age, cause) and is adjusted based on the TSH test. After any dose change, TSH is usually rechecked at 6–8 weeks, then periodically once the value is stable. Do not adjust the dose on your own based on how you feel — symptoms change more slowly than test results.
Useful cautions
Do not switch the brand/generic without telling your doctor (there may be small differences in absorption that matter with this medication). In pregnancy the requirement increases, so dosing is reassessed quickly. Too much levothyroxine causes symptoms of hyperthyroidism (palpitations, tremor, insomnia) — one more reason for monitoring.
What is up to you
The morning routine (on an empty stomach, away from coffee and calcium) and timely tests make the difference. For up-to-date levothyroxine prices at nearby pharmacies, use the HartaFarmacii search.
- ANMDMR — SmPC for levothyroxine
- American Thyroid Association (ATA) — guidelines for the treatment of hypothyroidism
- EMA — information on thyroid medicines