Can I take Levothyroxine and Coffee together?

You should avoid taking levothyroxine and coffee at the same time as coffee can significantly reduce the amount of medicine your body absorbs.

Why this happens

Levothyroxine is a sensitive medicine that needs a very specific environment in the stomach to be absorbed properly. Coffee contains compounds that can bind to the medicine or change how quickly it moves through your digestive system, preventing it from entering your bloodstream effectively.

You may be experiencing an interaction between levothyroxine and coffee if you notice:

• Your thyroid symptoms aren’t improving (e.g., fatigue, weight changes, feeling cold).

• Unexplained changes in energy or mood.

• Lab tests showing lower-than-expected thyroid hormone levels.

Coffee can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine if taken too close together, making the medication less effective.

If you experience these side effects, you should:

• Take levothyroxine on an empty stomach with water and wait at least 30–60 minutes before drinking coffee or other beverages.

• Do not change your dose on your own-talk to your doctor if your symptoms continue.

• Schedule a follow-up blood test if your thyroid levels seem off.

• Keep a consistent routine for taking your medication each day to ensure it works properly.

This helps your body absorb the medication effectively and keeps your thyroid levels stable.

Coffee consumption timing

You must wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking levothyroxine before drinking coffee. Coffee significantly reduces the absorption of the medicine, which can lead to unstable thyroid levels.

Coffee and Caffeine

Coffee can significantly reduce the amount of levothyroxine your body absorbs. You should wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking your levothyroxine before drinking coffee or tea.

Dairy products (Milk, Yoghurt, Cheese)

Calcium found in dairy products can interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine. It is best to take your medication on an empty stomach and wait at least 30 to 60 minutes before consuming dairy.

Soya products

Soya can interfere with how levothyroxine is absorbed. If you eat a lot of soya, your doctor may need to monitor your hormone levels more closely.

Papaya

There is some evidence that eating large amounts of papaya may reduce the absorption of levothyroxine.

High-fibre foods

A very high-fibre diet (such as large amounts of bran or beans) can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine. If you significantly change your fibre intake, inform your doctor.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.