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Liothyronine

Liothyronine is a thyroid hormone medicine. It is taken as a tablet and supplies hormone that the thyroid gland normally produces. It is used for thyroid conditions.

Medicine containing Liothyronine

Cytomel

Hypothyroidism

20mcg

Liothyronine is supplied as Cytomel, a tablet used for hypothyroidism as thyroid hormone replacement. It comes in one strength and pack sizes. You see the price per tablet for each option.

FromUS$0.94/ tabletView

Key points

  • Liothyronine belongs to the thyroid agents class.
  • It can be used as a test for hyperthyroidism.
  • A boxed warning states that thyroid hormone must not be used to treat obesity in people with normal thyroid function; it is ineffective for weight reduction and may cause serious or life-threatening toxicity, especially with amphetamines.

What liothyronine is used for

Liothyronine treats hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone; see Hypothyroidism. It is also used for a goitre, an enlarged thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism is a Thyroid Health condition.

How liothyronine works

It acts directly on cellular metabolic processes. By mimicking the hormone produced by the thyroid gland, it supports healthy metabolism, growth and development throughout body tissues. Its onset is 24–72 hours and its duration is 24–48 hours.

Cytomel tablets

Cytomel tablets contain liothyronine 20mcg. Cytomel is the tablet product supplied through MayChemist. Pharmacy partners in India ship orders to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety and interactions

Do not take liothyronine if you have hypersensitivity to it, untreated thyrotoxicosis or adrenal insufficiency. Use with caution in elderly patients; cardiac function should be monitored, and it should be avoided in people with cardiovascular disease. Minor side effects include headache, nausea and tremor. Insomnia, tachycardia and sweating are moderate effects. Arrhythmia, angina pectoris and myocardial infarction are serious and require immediate medical attention. Interactions include blood glucose lowering drugs, warfarin and cardiac glycosides. Not recommended for children unless a specialist indicates it. In pregnancy, use with caution because requirements may change; it is excreted in breast milk, so monitor infants closely.

What the sources say

  • Cholestyramine should be taken at least 4 to 5 hours before or after liothyronine. (MedlinePlus)
  • Salicylate pain relievers such as aspirin and aspirin-containing products may interact with liothyronine; discuss them with a healthcare provider before use. (MedlinePlus)
  • Chest pain and a rapid or irregular heartbeat require immediate medical attention. (MedlinePlus)

Further reading

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