Is it anything to do with toxic effects? With metabolism reduced in hypothyroid patients, it's theoretically easier to get a build up of toxins as metabolic pathways in the liver could be decreased - therefore overdose is easier (re paracetamol). Overall they would need a reduced dose?
This is definitely what I would call an educated guess... if anyone has any scientific proof to back up my insane theory.......!
I asked one of the manufacturers. The main issue apparently is possible respiratory depression. I asked whether there was evidence of problem with treated hypothyroidism and they said they couldn't differentiate.
I would have thought though if the thyroid was EITHER producing enough hormone OR the hormone levels were being topped up there wouldn't be a problem. So you'd be OK provided the patient was taking his levo.