Why should levothyroxine be taken on an empty stomach?

The reason for taking Levothyroxine on an empty stomach is generally that taking the medication on an empty stomach promotes the absorption of Levothyroxine and is more effective. Levothyroxine is taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach. Levothyroxine is absorbed in the jejunum and ileum, and the acidic state in the stomach under fasting conditions makes it essential for subsequent absorption in the small intestine. If the controlled level of thyrotropin is used as a criterion, then the different times of dosing compared to each other are, in order from best to worst absorption, 60 minutes before breakfast, before bedtime, 30 minutes before breakfast, and at mealtime. Taking the medication on an empty stomach may be inconvenient for the patient; therefore, if it is not possible to take levothyroxine 1 hour before breakfast, bedtime may be an option. Patients who need to take levothyroxine should follow their doctor’s instructions and standardize their medication.