Liothyronine Tablets

Description

Generic Name: Liothyronine
Brand Name: Cytomel
Important Warning
Liothyronine (a synthetic form of the T3 thyroid hormone) should not be used for weight loss or obesity in people with normally functioning thyroids. Taking higher-than-recommended doses can lead to serious or life-threatening side effects, particularly if combined with appetite suppressants or other sympathomimetic drugs.

Uses for Liothyronine Tablets
Liothyronine is prescribed to treat:

Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone (T3).
Goiter (Enlarged Thyroid): To help reduce goiter size.
Thyroid Cancer: As part of treatment in certain cases.
Diagnostic Purposes: In certain tests to assess thyroid function.
Liothyronine supplements low thyroid hormone levels, improving metabolism, energy, and overall bodily functions.

Before Using Liothyronine
Allergies
Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to liothyronine, thyroid hormones, foods, dyes, preservatives, or other substances.

Pediatric and Geriatric Use
Pediatric: Liothyronine may be used for children with hypothyroidism; dosages must be carefully monitored.
Geriatric: Older adults, especially those with heart conditions, may need lower initial doses and closer supervision to avoid heart-related side effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Thyroid hormone therapy is often continued during pregnancy, but dose adjustments may be necessary. Consult your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding: Liothyronine can pass into breast milk in small amounts. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
Interactions
Medications
Certain medications may affect how liothyronine works or be affected by liothyronine, including:

Antidiabetic drugs (e.g., insulin, oral hypoglycemics): Dose adjustments may be needed.
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Effects may be increased, raising the risk of bleeding.
Cholestyramine, colestipol, calcium, iron supplements: May reduce liothyronine absorption if taken too close together.
Estrogen-containing products (e.g., oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy): May alter thyroid hormone requirements.
Food, Alcohol, and Tobacco
Food/Supplements: Take liothyronine consistently regarding mealtimes (often on an empty stomach) to maintain stable absorption.
Alcohol: No specific interactions, but heavy use can affect overall health and metabolism.
Proper Use of Liothyronine Tablets
Take liothyronine exactly as prescribed, typically once daily.
Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.
It may take several weeks before you notice improvement in your symptoms.
Follow your doctor’s instructions and do not change your dose unless advised.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.

Storage
Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Precautions While Using Liothyronine
Heart Disease: If you have heart problems (e.g., angina, arrhythmia), monitor closely for chest pain or palpitations; dose adjustments may be required.
Blood Sugar: Liothyronine can alter blood glucose levels, so diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar carefully.
Long-Term Therapy: Most people with hypothyroidism need lifelong treatment. Regular follow-up tests and dose adjustments may be needed.
Surgery or Illness: Inform any healthcare provider treating you that you are on thyroid hormone therapy.
Side Effects of Liothyronine Tablets
Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention)
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain or shortness of breath
Extreme nervousness or irritability
Unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or diarrhea
Severe headache, confusion, or seizures (signs of thyroid hormone overdose)
Common Side Effects
Mild hair loss (often temporary)
Headache or sweating
Increased appetite
Tremors or nervousness
Heat intolerance
Emergency Situations and Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, agitation, or confusion. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent side effects or have concerns about taking liothyronine. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for safe and effective use.

Full Prescribing Information.

MedlinePlus Drug Information.

Mayo Clinic drug information.