Taking Cytomel for Thyroid Issues – A Complete Guide
Cytomel is the brand name for liothyronine. Liothyronine is a synthetic form of a hormone made in your thyroid gland. It’s important for regulating your metabolism. Cytomel is sometimes the medication prescribed if you have hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone). It most typically comes in tablet form.
Hypothyroidism and Cytomel
Cytomel is used to treat an underactive thyroid gland. The aim is that taking the medication will balance the hormones for you because it is similar to thyroxine, the hormone which you aren’t producing enough of. Most hypothyroid patients are typically prescribed levothyroxine in this instance, but Cytomel (liothyronine) is prescribed in some instances because it generally works more quickly.
To understand this, it’s important to understand the differences between T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine (the predominant thyroid treatment) replaces T4. However, T4 isn’t the active form of thyroid hormone, this is T3. Your body needs to convert T4 into the active form of T3. For many people with hypothyroidism, they can do this. However, for others, their body is inefficient at doing this, or simply unable. In this instance, treating their hypothyroidism needs the active form of thyroid hormone directly. Cytomel provides this.
Taking Cytomel
Cytomel is prescribed by a physician. It’s important that you give it time to work, and that you don’t stop taking it suddenly.
Before you start taking Cytomel, there are some things to be aware of. These conditions should be discussed with your doctor if Cytomel is being considered:
- High blood pressure, heart disease or problems with your blood vessels
- Diabetes
- Previous allergic reactions
- Any other medications you are taking, particularly midodrine (a treatment for low blood pressure)
When you order Cytomel through International Pharmacy, you will be supplied with a printed information leaflet which gives information about the medication and how to take it. You should follow these instructions in line with the guidance your doctor has given you.
If you take certain medicines to control high cholesterol (such as colestipol, cholestyramine or colesevelam) then you should take your Cytomel at least 4 hours beforehand.
When you first start taking Cytomel, it is normal to start on a low dose of half to one tablet per day. As you adjust, this will then be increased to two or three tablets taken throughout the day. It is best to take Cytomel close to a mealtime (either before or afterwards) and take the tablet with water.
Let your dentist know if you are taking Cytomel.
What if I miss a dose of Cytomel?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, trying to ensure you get the correct amount in the day. However, if you miss it completely, don’t double-up at the next dose or on the next day, just continue as normal.
Cytomel side effects
All medications can cause unwanted side effects. These aren’t always experienced by everyone. Full lists of Cytomel side effects are included in your patient information leaflet. Sometimes side effects are short-term, whilst you adjust to the medication, or they may be an indication that your dose needs adjusting. It’s always sensible to discuss these with your doctor.
Common side effects experienced with liothyronine include:
- Nausea & Vomiting
Feeling or being sick can be eased by eating smaller amounts more often.
- Headache
Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids and take an over-the-counter analgesic if needed. Speak to your doctor if this side effect persists.
- Diarrhea
Again, ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids.
- Palpitations
The sensation of a racing or thumping heart is a symptom of too much thyroid hormone, speak to your doctor and they can help you get the dose right.
- Other symptoms
Other side effects, such as insomnia, hair loss, flushing, sweating, feeling restless, losing weight and itchy rashes are possible. Generally your body adjusts, but if you are having problems then do talk to your doctor.
Very rarely, taking this medication may cause severe hypothyroidism, leading to a dangerous condition called myxedema coma. If you have symptoms including weakness, confusion, low temperature, difficulty breathing or swelling (particularly of the face, tongue and legs), then you should seek emergency medical attention.
Cytomel is a medicine designed to be taken for life, so it is worth taking time to adjust to side effects and balance your dosage. Sometimes Cytomel is actually used as part of your thyroid problem diagnosis. If this is the case, you may not stay on this particular medication long term before moving onto a different medication.
You can order your Cytomel tablets through International Pharmacy, at the dose that you need, from a reputable source.
Please always seek medical advice. The information on International Pharmacy is intended as guidance only.