Thyroid hormone replacement
What to do if you miss a dose of Levothyroxine
Missing a dose of Levothyroxine (Levothyroxine) is common — most people will skip a dose at some point during a course. The right action depends on how long since the missed dose and whether Levothyroxine is taken event-driven or daily at 25mcg, 50mcg, 75mcg, 100mcg, 150mcg. The wrong action — doubling up — is not recommended.
For daily Levothyroxine
If Levothyroxine is taken daily for a chronic condition, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case skip the missed dose and continue normally. According to the prescribing information for Levothyroxine, two doses should never be taken close together to "make up" for a miss.
For event-driven Levothyroxine
If Levothyroxine is used as needed (not on a fixed schedule), there is no "missed dose" in the conventional sense — simply take the planned dose when needed and observe the recommended gap before re-dosing. Levothyroxine replaces deficient endogenous thyroxine, which is converted in tissues to the active hormone triiodothyronine (T3) by deiodinase enzymes.
Frequently asked questions
Should I double the dose if I missed Levothyroxine? ▾
No. Doubling doses of Levothyroxine to compensate is not recommended at any 25mcg, 50mcg, 75mcg, 100mcg, 150mcg strength and increases the risk of side effects without improving efficacy. Take the next scheduled dose normally.
How many missed doses are too many? ▾
Occasional missed doses of Levothyroxine are usually inconsequential. Repeated missed doses can compromise the therapeutic effect — for chronic conditions like those treated with Thyroid hormone replacement, consistent dosing matters. If adherence is hard, discuss reminders, simpler schedules or alternative formulations with the prescriber.
Products containing Levothyroxine
More on Levothyroxine
- With alcoholLevothyroxine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Levothyroxine be taken with food?
- Side effectsLevothyroxine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideLevothyroxine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Levothyroxine start working?
- DurationHow long does Levothyroxine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.