Iodine × Levothyroxine Interaction

Mechanism

Excess iodine can paradoxically inhibit thyroid hormone synthesis (Wolff-Chaikoff effect) and interfere with thyroid medication.

Effect

Altered thyroid function; hypothyroidism in susceptible individuals

Management

Avoid high-dose iodine supplements (>1mg/day) with thyroid disease. Monitor TSH.

Plain Language Summary

✨ AI-generated · Qwen 3.6 · grounded in 2 sources · methodology

Taking high doses of iodine while on levothyroxine can be problematic for your thyroid health. Excess iodine can interfere with how your medication works and may cause your thyroid to become underactive.

Source

Leung AM, Braverman LE. Thyroid 2012

Research

Supporting Research

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PMID:41881430 DOI 2026

Interventions for cutaneous molluscum contagiosum

PMID:28513067 DOI 2017

Chlorhexidine vs Povidone-Iodine and Incidence of Catheter-Related Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PMID:41678192 DOI 2026

Radioiodine Remnant Ablation for Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PMID:33792650 DOI 2021

Alcoholic chlorhexidine skin preparation or triclosan-coated sutures to reduce surgical site infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis of high-quality randomised controlled trials

PMID:35644158 DOI 2022

Oral hygiene care for critically ill patients to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia

PMID:23939759 DOI 2013

Interventions for ingrowing toenails

PMID:22513901 DOI 2012

Interventions for the management of malignant pleural effusions: a network meta-analysis

PMID:27155783 DOI 2016

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Medical Disclaimer: This interaction record is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining any supplement with prescription medications.