The beginning of pharmacological treatment in some diseases generates particular uncertainty when starting it, especially in those that require drugs such as antibiotics, hormones, or anti-hypertensives.
The consumption of some drugs can be affected by combining medications with some substances, such as alcohol and coffee. However, knowing for sure the side effects of medications can be when mixed with other substances generates confidence. It allows the treatment indicated by the doctor to be positively carried out.
When a thyroid gland disorder called hypothyroidism occurs, drug treatment is required. Because of this, the question arises: can I drink alcohol if I take thyroid pills? Next, in this FastlyHealarticle, you will learn everything related to the medications used to treat the thyroid and their possible effects when taking them if alcohol is consumed.
What is levothyroxine
Levothyroxine is a drug administered to people who cannot produce enough thyroid hormone. This alteration is known as Hypothyroidism. This thyroid pill is responsible for replacing the hormone in question, usually produced by the body.
For the body to function, it needs the presence of this hormone to be able to fulfill each of its functions at the endocrine level. Therefore, it is essential to administer the medicine correctly.
Learn more about hypothyroidism in Hypothyroidism: symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
The lack of this hormone in the body can prevent it from working correctly, which could cause the following symptoms of hypothyroidism:
- Poor growth
- Speak slow.
- Excessive tiredness.
- Lack of energy.
- Weight gain.
- Hair loss.
- Increased sensitivity to cold.
- Dry and thick skin.
- Irregularity in menstrual periods.
- Depression.
Indications of levothyroxine
This medicine is used in the treatment of the following disorders of the thyroid gland:
- Hypothyroidism
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as a non-endemic simple goiter.
- Thyroiditis.
- Surgical removal of the gland generates hypothyroidism.
- Thyroid cancer.
In these cases, levothyroxine is indicated to cover the thyroid hormone deficiency after a medical evaluation by the endocrinologist and clinical studies to corroborate the diagnosis.
Can I drink alcohol if I take thyroid pills?
Alcohol is a drug. Like any medicine, it passes through the digestive tract to reach the blood and thus establishes itself in the places where it will have its effect. Problems can occur when ingesting alcohol and medicine simultaneously, making a more significant impact.
“Can I drink alcohol if I take thyroid pills?” The answer is no, as taking them with alcohol may increase the risk of side effects.
It is important to be clear that medications are safe and effective, as long as they are correctly consumed, away from alcohol. Its effect on the body will be guaranteed, without the risk of side effects.
If you find yourself taking thyroid pills, you should avoid drinking alcohol and the tablets since effects could appear that generate a state of alarm in your body. If this happens, you should see your doctor immediately.
Side effects of levothyroxine
All medications have side effects, so care must be taken. Some of these side effects of levothyroxine are:
- Headache.
- Allergic reactions.
- Arrhythmia.
- Diarrhea.
- Tachycardia.
- Weightloss.
- Nervousness.
- Insomnia.
- Hair loss can occur in the first months of treatment.
- Menstrual disturbances
To prevent these from occurring, you should follow the indications prescribed by the doctor who indicates the treatment. In addition, excess of this synthetic hormone in the body can cause:
- Increased appetite
- Palpitations
- Tremors
- Insomnia.
Precautions if you take thyroid pills
This hormone has a specific use, so it should not be used to treat some pathologies without taking due precautions.
- If you have suffered from an allergy to any medication, you should inform your doctor so that he can take the precautions at the time of prescription.
- A pediatrician should control its use in children.
- In older adults, caution should be exercised, especially in patients suffering from cardiovascular problems. In this case, the doctor will adjust the dose.
Also, it is essential to be cautious if you take certain medications, such as:
- Iron.
- Medicines containing calcium carbonate.
- Antacids are made from aluminum and magnesium.
You should wait for 4 hours between taking it and taking levothyroxine to avoid any interaction.
Excess levothyroxine could cause angina pectoris and irregular heartbeat if you suffer from heart problems.
If you present any of these alterations, go to your doctor, he will decide to adjust the dose taking into account the symptoms you present.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Can, I drink alcohol if I take thyroid pills? We recommend that you enter our Endocrine System category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.