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Dr. Banita Sehgal
Internal Medicine Physician
My approach to healthcare is rooted in building genuine partnerships with my patients.
Taking the time to understand their needs and goals helps us collaborate effectively and find the best path forward together. What I love most about my work is being someone they can count on — familiar, accessible, and focused on their well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Levothyroxine is likely right for you if you’ve been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and your blood tests show low thyroid hormone levels—especially if you’re experiencing related symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or feeling cold all the time.
Your healthcare provider will consider:
- Your TSH and free T4 levels
- The severity of your symptoms
- Any underlying health conditions or medications that may affect thyroid function
They’ll start you on a dose based on your age, weight, and health history, then adjust it over time based on follow-up labs and how you feel.
The best time to take levothyroxine is first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, at least 30 to 60 minutes before eating or drinking anything (except water). This helps your body absorb the medication properly.
If that’s not possible, it can also be taken at bedtime, as long as it’s been at least three to four hours after your last meal. The key is to take it the same way at the same time every day to keep your hormone levels steady.
You should wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking levothyroxine before eating or drinking anything other than water. This gives your body time to properly absorb the medication.
Eating too soon – especially foods high in fiber, calcium, or iron – can reduce how well the medication works. For best results, take it consistently on an empty stomach and wait before having breakfast, coffee, or supplements.
Yes, you can generally drink alcohol while taking levothyroxine – but moderation is key.
Alcohol doesn't directly interfere with how levothyroxine works, but heavy or frequent drinking can affect thyroid function and liver metabolism, which might impact how your body processes the medication.
If you drink occasionally and your thyroid levels are stable, it's usually not a problem. Still, it’s a good idea to let your healthcare provider know about your alcohol use so they can monitor your thyroid function appropriately.
Levothyroxine can lead to some weight loss in people with hypothyroidism, but it’s usually just a return to your normal weight after correcting the hormone imbalance – not dramatic or rapid weight loss.
When thyroid hormone levels are too low, your metabolism slows down, which can cause weight gain. Levothyroxine helps restore normal metabolism, so some of that weight – especially from fluid retention – may come off. However, it’s not a weight loss medication, and taking more than prescribed can be dangerous.
The most common side effects of levothyroxine typically happen if your dose is too high and your body starts showing signs of too much thyroid hormone. These may include:
- Increased heart rate (palpitations)
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight loss
- Sweating or heat sensitivity
- Tremors
- Diarrhea
If you're on the correct dose, side effects are rare. But if you notice symptoms of over-treatment or under-treatment, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage. Regular blood tests help keep your levels in a healthy range.
LifeMD offers patients access to licensed healthcare providers who can offer guidance on healthcare concerns. Through our virtual platform, you can schedule same-day appointments and meet with a medical professional from the comfort of your home.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe you a medication if appropriate, and order it to your local pharmacy for your convenience. Skip the waiting room with LifeMD, make an appointment today to get started.