I use Synthroid and I don't refrigerate it. I've never had a problem.
However, if your doctor, pharmacy or prescription packing mentions that you should refrigerate your thyroid hormone, you probably should. If not, it's up to you.
What types of drug interactions should I worry about?
Thyroid hormones are very serious substances. They can have negative interactions with a variety of medications which include: certain types of antidepressants, anticoagulants ("blood thinners"), insulin and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
You should let your doctor know what other medications and supplements you are on prior to your prescription being written. You should also read the medication information packets that you receive with your prescriptions and ask the pharmacist as well.
Also note that some drugs can reduce the potency of the thyroid medications; others may increase it. There are some that will make the effect of the hormone null and void. Thyroid medications may require that certain prescriptions be adjusted or that you switch to another, less thyroid-unfriendly one.
Should you take your thyroid medication on an empty stomach?
I usually do because my doctor recommended it. Although, I don't wait to eat breakfast for an hour after taking it like some other people do. If I do that, I get nauseous, but that's me.
Anyway, most doctors recommend taking your thyroid hormones this way because food can impede the absorption of the drug into the bloodstream because it can bind with it. However, some people find that food helps them 'stomach' the medication better. Guidelines are there to guide you and recommendations are just that.
You have to do what's right for you.
Should I take my thyroid medication at different times than I take other medications?
Most experts agree that you should take your thyroid medications at different times of the day from other vitamins and medications, such as insulin, and anti-seizure drugs, usually an hour or two apart.
You should also avoid taking your thyroid medication with Iodine and/or Calcium as both substances can impact absorption of your medication into your system.
Will fiber help you absorb your thyroid medication better?
A diet that is high in fiber is certainly one that can help speed the absorption process up. Fiber seems to get things going. However, switching to a high fiber diet isn't necessary for you to get the full effects of your thyroid medications. It may make sense if you are suffering from constipation as a result of your hypothyroidism.
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