Liothyronine/T3 Interactions?

[Fmljkl]

Is it OK to take liothyronine WITH food? I cannot find any definitive info online regarding t3 interactions. I’m wondering if I’m wasting my time taking it with coffee, milk and a protein drink that has lots of vitamins in it. If so, how long do I need to space it out from food and drink? Please help!

[RedApple Administrator]

I don't think there's enough evidence to say defintely one way or the other. I've seen the odd claim that it can be taken with food, but I've never been convinced, nor have I tried it myself. Most people take it away from food, in the same way as levo.

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

Much of the information that has been published simply assumes that liothyronine is like levothyroxine - therefore it needs to have the same time gaps, interacts in the same way with the same things, etc.

However, last time I looked - some time ago now, I couldn't find any research specifically on liothyronine. But it is quite clear that assumptions are unacceptable.

My suspicions are that it is not as susceptible to issues with most foods, drinks, supplements and other medicines. But that shouldn't be taken as it being OK taken anyhow and with anything. And it just might have some specific interactions which really do need to be taken into account - when we eventually identify them!

[Jaydee1507 Administrator]

It used to be recommended to take T3 with food to slow its action down a little in the early stages of taking it inparticular.

I've seen many members here put off splitting their T3 dose to avoid food interactions, and its a great shame as if you always do something similar every day then your results will show if you need more or less.

As far as I am aware its not as fussy as levo. It may make a difference if you take it on an empty stomach an hour before anything other than water, but later in the day this becomes quite difficult to maintain on a daily basis.

Try taking it in different ways and find out what works for you.

[jimh111]

It's much better absorbed than levothyroxine. I think its OK with food but not sure about coffee, so I would avoid taking it with coffee.