CYTOMEL (LIOTHYRONINE)

About Cytomel

Cytomel is a hormone replacement medication that contains synthetic forms of the human thyroid hormones that regulate energy and metabolism. It is used to treat people whose thyroid glands do not produce enough of these hormones. Cytomel is given to rapidly replace the Liothyronine that would normally have been produced by the thyroid gland. It doesn't stimulate the thyroid gland to produce greater amounts of thyroid hormones; it simply acts to quickly return the blood levels of Liothyronine to normal levels.

Cytomel or Liothyronine generic is taken orally; you will probably need to take it for the rest of your life. A valid prescription will be needed to purchase Cytomel or generic Liothyronine. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Cytomel for Hypothyroidism

Cytomel is an effective treatment for a condition called hypothyroidism, which develops when the thyroid gland stops functioning properly because of disease, injury, or surgery. Those who develop hypothyroidism generally experience symptoms like weight gain and loss of energy, as well as hair loss and mood swings. By supplementing the missing thyroid hormones, Cytomel can temporarily reverse these symptoms. Cytomel does not cure hypothyroidism, however, and will likely need to be taken on an ongoing basis.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

There are a number of causes for hypothyroidism; iodine deficiency is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide. If the thyroid does not produce enough of the necessary hormones, it can throw off the body’s ability to manage energy, causing hyperactivity or hypo activity.

Hypothyroidism may also be due to chronic autoimmune inflammation of the thyroid gland, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. In autoimmune conditions the body's immune system seems to turn against some of its own tissues.

Liothyronine is also prescribed to treat goiter, a swelling in the thyroid gland, and myxedema (the body's changes associated with prolonged low blood levels of thyroid hormone). It may also be used to aid the process of diagnosing hyperthyroidism (high levels of thyroid hormone).

Before You Take Cytomel

Ask your doctor if Cytomel is safe to take if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding. List all current OTC and Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin supplements to be certain of any known negative interactions with Cytomel.

Advise your physician if you have heart disease, angina, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, uncorrected problems of the adrenal glands, or untreated thyrotoxicosis before receiving a prescription for Cytomel. Some anti-depressant, antacid, and blood thinner drugs are known to interact negatively with Cytomel, as are several hormonal medications. Because of this, they should only be taken as directed by your doctor.

What to Watch for When Taking Cytomel

You will also want to watch for signs of thyroid toxicity, which include chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeat, and nervousness. Let your doctor know if you notice any of these symptoms during treatment with Cytomel. Until you know how your body will react to Cytomel, do not take part in unsafe activities.

Possible Cytomel Side Effects

• Temporary hair loss
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping
• Increased sweating
• Changes to your menstrual cycle