What Happens If I Miss My Thyroid Medication for One Day?

Missing a daily medication dose can be a source of anxiety, especially for those who manage long-term health conditions like hypothyroidism. For individuals on thyroid hormone replacement therapy, a missed dose isn’t an uncommon occurrence.

The good news is that for most people, a single missed pill is unlikely to cause significant issues due to the nature of the medication. This article provides general information and steps to consider, but it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your primary care provider for personalized guidance.

Understanding Your Thyroid Medication

Thyroid hormone replacement, such as levothyroxine, is the typical treatment for an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). The medication works by providing the synthetic version of a hormone the body would normally produce. It’s crucial for regulating metabolism and supporting the function of nearly every system in the body.

The medication has a very long half-life, meaning it remains in your system for a significant amount of time—about seven days. This characteristic is why a single missed dose typically does not cause a noticeable change in your hormone levels or a return of symptoms.

What To Do If You Miss a Dose of Thyroid Medication

The general rule of thumb is to take your medication as soon as you remember that you have missed a dose. However, the exact guidance can depend on how much time has passed.

Your provider may suggest taking it if you remember the forgotten dose on the same day. However, if more than three hours have passed or it is past midday, some providers recommend skipping the dose for the day to avoid overlapping doses and to resume your usual schedule the next day.

If you are a “zero-reserve patient”—meaning you have had your thyroid removed through surgery or radioactive iodine treatment—some providers may recommend contacting them after any missed dose to determine the best course of action.

Important Considerations for Taking Thyroid Medication

The timing of taking thyroid medication directly affects its absorption. To ensure the medication works as intended, it must be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water.

You should avoid taking it with food, other medications, or supplements such as calcium or iron, as they can interfere with its effectiveness. It’s also generally advised to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking the medication before eating or drinking anything besides water.

What If I Miss Several Doses of My Thyroid Medication?

While missing a single dose is unlikely to cause a problem, missing several consecutive doses can lead to your hormone levels dropping below what your body needs to function properly. If this occurs, you may experience a return of symptoms such as fatigue, feeling cold, and body aches.

In extremely rare cases, if hypothyroidism is left untreated for a long time, it can lead to a severe condition called myxedema coma. This is a medical emergency that can cause swelling in the hands, feet, or face, as well as confusion, and it requires immediate care. However, this condition is associated with prolonged lack of treatment, not a single missed pill.

When To Contact Your Provider

If you’ve missed one dose of your thyroid medication and are unsure what to do, or if you have missed several doses, it’s always best to contact your prescriber for guidance. This is also important if you begin to experience any new or worsening symptoms.

While some healthcare providers may state that it is safe to take a double dose to make up for a missed one, others advise against it due to the risk of temporary heart palpitations or tremors. Your primary care provider can provide you with the most accurate and safe instructions tailored to your specific health needs and medication regimen.

If you don’t have a Baptist Health provider, call 1.844.608.1644 or find one in your area by visiting our provider directory. You can also register for an upcoming Endocrinology event or class.

Next Steps and Helpful Resources

Learn More About Endocrinology at Baptist Health
What is an Endocrinologist?
Understanding Endocrine Lab Test Results
What Are Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals?