Cytomel
® (
liothyronine sodium) is a prescription medication that is a manufactured version of a certain thyroid hormone. Even though it is synthetic, Cytomel is identical to the naturally occurring hormone liothyronine (also known as T3 or triiodothyronine). It is approved to treat an
underactive thyroid (known medically as
hypothyroidism) and goiters. Cytomel is also used in certain thyroid diagnostic tests.
(Click Cytomel Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Cytomel is manufactured by King Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
The thyroid gland makes two different thyroid hormones:
levothyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Although T3 is much more active than T4, the thyroid usually produces more T4 than T3. The body can convert the T4 hormone into T3 as necessary. If your thyroid does not make enough thyroid hormones, there are a few different options to increase your levels.
Some forms of thyroid replacement combine T4 and T3 (such as natural thyroid replacement made from pig thyroids). However, such products are usually not the preferred option for most people. Synthetic (manufactured) thyroid hormones like Cytomel are less likely to cause allergic reactions, since they are not made from animal thyroids, and may provide for more precise control of thyroid levels. Although most people take a synthetic T4 thyroid replacement product (such as
Synthroid®), some people may benefit from T3 replacement (such as Cytomel), either alone or in combination with a T4 medication. Some people may not convert T4 into T3 appropriately, in which case a T3 product (like Cytomel) would work better.
When and How to Take Cytomel
General considerations for those taking this medication include the following:
- Cytomel comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth once a day.
- You can take your dosage any time of the day, but it is best to take it consistently at the same time each day.
- You can take Cytomel with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Cytomel will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Cytomel your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Cytomel. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. In general, side effects occur when the dosage is too high, since taking too much causes symptoms of an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
Some of the possible side effects include but are not limited to:
- Headache
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Sweating.
(Click Cytomel Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Cytomel?
Talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take an overdose of Cytomel may experience effects such as:
If you happen to take too much, seek prompt medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Cytomel as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. Each time you get your blood tests to monitor your thyroid function, be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have missed any doses, as this may affect any dosage adjustments.
Cytomel tablets come in the following strengths:
- Cytomel 5 mcg (0.005 mg)
- Cytomel 25 mcg (0.025 mg)
- Cytomel 50 mcg. (0.05 mg).
Is There a Generic Version of Cytomel?
There are generic versions of this medication available
(see Generic Cytomel for more information).
