morning all - I’d really appreciate some advice please. My blood tests are at 2.40pm one day next week and I usually take my tablets about 3-4am. (2.40pm was Earliest appointment I could get).
When would it be best to take it prior to testing? It seems maybe too long to miss it until after the bloods? I could take them earlier?
Advice very gratefully received.
I agree it is too long to wait and will show a falsely low number for, for example, FT4.
I'd be fairly relaxed about a 12+ hour gap. But you could, possibly, take the tablet a little earlier? Say at bed-time.
And be aware that an afternoon test will see TSH lower than would otherwise be expected. Possibly by enough to affect interpretation of the result.
Thx - it’s been the earliest I could get and had to wait 3 weeks already - reason for test being the adverse affects from 2 steroid injections for inflammation (Sjogrens) and Morton’s neuroma (beginning of June) They’re checking a lot of things for my symptoms , including my thyroid.
Yes - I understood you were aware! And it can be very difficult getting an early appointment.
If you need a higher TSH reading to justify an increase in medication, then I would delay the test for an early morning option. However, if you are not having adverse symptoms that might warrant an adjustment, take the afternoon test and follow helvella suggestion to take your prior dose at bedtime.
My understanding is that a fasting blood test is preferable, although I don't have the science to back that up.I'll be following to find out what the experts say
Cate04 The science to back up recommendations re. time of last dose, and fasting ( breakfast) is in replies to this post (see 3rd and 4th replies) : healthunlocked.com/thyroidu.... -list-of-references-recommending-gps-keep-tsh-lower-in-range-
Hi Scullngbunny, I'm no expert, but I think you'd be fine taking your tablets, or just half a dose?, right after your blood test. But do not take your dose of 2am the morning of the test. (Perhaps even the day before too? Other more learned members will know better than me!) I found this info out on this site - previously I'd taken my levothyroxine as normal even on the morning of my tests which is a big no-no apparently! Then just take your usual dose the am of the day after. From what I've learned taking Levo isn't like other tablets/drugs - it takes time to 'build up' in the body and consequently, time to leave.
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