Taking T4 twice a day... and with food

[YulianaRossenova]

Anyone tried that? If yes, does it work?

Thank you!

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

The big problem is that many, many substances interfere with absorption of levothyroxine.

In itself, you might think, well, take a bit more to compensate. For example, you need 100 micrograms, so actually take 125 micrograms. On one day that might work. But what are the chances of your food affecting absorption by the same amount every single day? Whether you are at home, on holiday, travelling, ill, etc.? Even if you tried to do the same every day, I suspect it will actually vary.

[YulianaRossenova in reply to helvella]

That was my apprehension as well, helvella.

[Clutter]

YulianaRossenova,

T4 and T3 bind to proteins in food which reduces absorption and is why it is recommended to take it away from food and drink.

There is no advantage in splitting T4 into two or more doses as it's long half life means the dose you are taking today will take around a week to be absorbed and converted into T3 and rT3.

[YulianaRossenova in reply to Clutter]

No, Clutter, I start converting T4 in about 8 hours after a dose. I know my body and my symptoms pretty well. I think everybody starts converting within 48 hours of dose taking. I feel conversion only when my dose is near the right one. Otherwise I don't feel anything.

The question is that I still get peaks and slumps even on t4 only.

I have always been like that.

That is why I wanted to try multi-dosing.

[Clutter in reply to YulianaRossenova]

YulianaRossenova,

Well try it then but take it away from food and drink.