At this time, no generic Cytomel (liothyronine) products are available, even though the patents for the medication have expired. While a generic version was once available, that medication has been discontinued. It is not known when (or if) a drug company will decide to manufacture another generic Cytomel drug. "Compounded" products are not exactly the same thing as Cytomel.
An Overview of Generic Cytomel
Cytomel® (
liothyronine sodium) is a prescription medication used as thyroid replacement for people with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It is also used to treat goiters and can be used in some diagnostic tests for thyroid problems.
Brand-name Cytomel is made by King Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Even though the patents for this medication have long expired, there are currently no generic versions of Cytomel available in the United States.
When Will Generic Cytomel Be Available?
It is difficult to predict when a generic version of Cytomel may become available. It is not entirely clear why there is no generic Cytomel at this point. In the past, one generic version (made by Watson Pharmaceuticals) was available, but this product has been discontinued. Perhaps there is not enough demand for such a product.
It is not clear when (or if ever) a generic manufacturer may decide to make a generic version of this drug again in the United States.
What About "Compounded" Cytomel?
In some situations, your pharmacy may make ("compound") a liothyronine medication especially tailored to your needs. Your healthcare provider must write you a prescription for such a product, and the compounded product must be substantially different from Cytomel. For instance, the compounded product could be a different strength compared to Cytomel or perhaps may be made in a long-acting form. It is not legal for pharmacies to compound products that are exactly the same as commercially available products such as Cytomel.
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