My Dr. started me on 50mcg of Levothroid on 8/1/12 when blood test showed my TSH at 8.8 (range .5-5.5).
She was only going to re-test my TSH again but relented after asking her twice to test FT3, FT4 and antibodies.
I am supposed to go next week for the test, but thought there was a better time of day to take the tests to get most accurate readings. Please let me know!
Re: When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests?
First thing in the morning, before taking your levothyroxine, is when the levels will be 'truest'. Also, a recent study concluded that fasting from midnight will provide more accurate results.
__________________ "We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses." Abraham Lincoln
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Re: When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests?
Yes, fasting and in in the am. If you wait till later your tsh might show higher and will be false. The doc will think you don't need meds or lower the dose maybe. Better to be safe than sorry.
The Following User Says Thank You to Bran'sNana For This Useful Post: Tired63 (09-07-2012)
Re: When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests?
now isn't this something? I JUST had this convo w/ my endo and she said it didn't matter and I was to take my meds that morning! I think I need to change drs!! Cathy
The Following User Says Thank You to noevr For This Useful Post: Tired63 (09-07-2012)
Re: When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests?
Yes - First thing in the morning before you take your meds and try to fast. I just had mine done this morning and what a difference. The last time I had them drawn was in the morning, but I had eaten and taken my meds. Totally different readings.
The Following User Says Thank You to susieq0726 For This Useful Post: Tired63 (09-07-2012)
Re: When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests?
yes second that and also important to be consistent. Try to have it done under the same conditions every time.
It's not uncommon for endo's to say it does not matter when it's done though.
a little sidenote, if your doctor is only willing to test TSH, I'd be on the lookout for anther doctor/backup plan.
Re: When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests?
Sorry, I was not very clear. My Dr. did finally order all the blood tests for me (TSH, FT3, FT4 and 2 antibody tests). At first when I asked for a complete set of tests she said no, only TSH. I asked her a second time by email and she never replied, however, when I was at a different Dr. Appt. on Thursday he checked and said she did order them all.
Seems she has a little chip on her shoulder, we shall she on next appt.
When is the best time of day to take Blood Tests? 
