Blood tests and should I take my steroids prior... - Thyroid UK

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Blood tests and should I take my steroids prior to the tests?

5 Replies

Hi, I am finally having my bloods done early tomorrow and will starve as you have all helpfully suggested as my TSH is being tested in addition to my T3 and T4. My question is should I take my prednisolone tablets as I usually do at 7am - my bloods are at 8.30am (I'll hold my other meds until afterwards) as I understand prednisolone can alter TSH. 

Thanks as always for your help, 

It is very much appreciated, 

Wennieflower 

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5 Replies
shaws profile image
shawsAdministrator

You don't have to starve which would probably mean no food at all for the day. :)

Just to be on the safe side I'd not take steroids until afterwards. 

Do you usually take them on an empty stomach? if so I'd take them after the test. I'd have breakfast and take thyroid hormones 2 to 2.5 hours later. If you don't need to take them on an empty stomach I'd reverse suggestion, i.e. levo after test and after 1 hour breakfast and steroid.

Do steroids not increase TSH? By starving I mean I won't eat between dinner tonight and having my bloods done tomorrow - I understand that eating lowers TSH.

Do steroids increase TSH and if so should I take them tomorrow? 

Thanks, 

Wennieflower 

bluebug profile image
bluebug in reply to

The common term used is "fasting" not "starving". 

Just want to ensure that you are taken seriously if you ever have to question a doctor.

in reply to bluebug

Okay thanks for that - I now that really - I was just in a hurry when I typed the question! Thanks anyway , always good and helpful to be taken seriously!! 

Rose54 profile image
Rose54

Hi

I am on steroids and have to take with food so when going for blood test for Thyroid I take tem after with food and take over meds later .

Rose

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