If you suffer from hypothyroidism and are taking hormone therapy, you may be wondering how to manage your medication during Ramadan.
Understanding your thyroid
The thyroid is a gland that produces hormones essential for your body, including thyroxine (T4). When your thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones, your body reacts by increasing the production of another hormone called TSH. In other words: when T4 decreases, TSH increases to compensate .
To put it simply: A high TSH level necessarily indicates a decrease in T4. This decrease in T4 indicates the need for a prescription of levothyroxine, which is its synthetic form.
When should levothyroxine be taken?
You have three options :
- 30 minutes before iftar
- At least 3 hours after iftar. But be careful: do not eat anything for 1 hour after taking the medication
- 1 hour before suhoor
Choose the option that best suits your routine and stay consistent throughout the month.
Important tips
Take your medicine with water.
Swallow your tablet with a large glass of water (250 mL) , never with tea, coffee or milk , as they reduce its effectiveness.
Stay well hydrated
During the hours when you are not fasting (between iftar and suhoor), drink plenty of water. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Warning signs
Fasting and changes in sleep patterns can intensify certain symptoms of hypothyroidism. Pay attention to:
- Excessive fatigue that is worsening
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- More pronounced constipation
- Very dry skin
If you notice them, contact your doctor.
Essential consultations
Before Ramadan
Make an appointment with your doctor to:
- Check your TSH
- Discuss a possible adjustment to your dose
- Plan the best time to take your medication
After Ramadan
One to two weeks after the end of the fast, have new blood tests done. This will detect any increase in TSH, which would indicate that your treatment needs to be readjusted.
- Lah Ichafikom -
Note: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor for advice tailored to your specific situation.
