Gaviscon affecting thyroid gland?

[saffbaby123]

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to pick your collective brain.

I’m part of the group of people who are experiencing long term covid effects, and one of the issues I’ve had over the past few weeks are gastro symptoms.

I’ve seen an ENT doc as have a raised node in my neck-been there for months-and feel there’s something there as I swallow. She’s suggested omeprazole and gaviscon advanced -but mentioned being careful with the latter as it could interfere with the thyroxine.

Has anyone heard of this before?

How does it interfere and is there a recommended pattern of use therefore?

Many thanks

[Lalatoot]

Generally those of us who are hypo suffer from low stomach acid and not too much stomach acid. The symptoms are very similar. For low stomach acid we take diluted cider apple vinegar.

Any stomach problems and treatment could interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine. You need to take treatments hours away from your levo.

If this was me I would try the cider vinegar first and if that didn't help I would go down the gxviscon route.

[Lora7again]

I have used gaviscon all my life and I find it a safe and effective way to treat indigestion. As long as it taken hours after any thyroid medication I don't think it would affect your thyroid. I wouldn't take it all the time but only when it is needed.

[saffbaby123]

Super! Thanks so much to you both x

[Cat013]

Hi saffbaby123

My levo instructions clearly state not to use it. So personally I’d try to find alternatives.

Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is well known to ease stomach problems and neutralise stomach acid. Some of my friends swear by it. It also can reduce inflammation. I’ve not seen any links to it being bad for the thyroid. Often the opposite but I’ve not read anything in detail. It says use it two hours after taking your levo.

Hope you find something that helps 😊

[bantam12 in reply to Cat013]

It's fine to take Gaviscon, just not at the same time as the Levo.