Liothyronine Sodium

Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, euthyroid Goitre + 6 more
Treatment
5 FDA approvals
20 Active Studies for Liothyronine Sodium

What is Liothyronine Sodium

LiothyronineThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryLiothyronine is a thyroid hormone used to replace or supplement the naturally-occurring hormone made by the thyroid gland. It is composed of a tyrosine molecule with a bound iodine and is the active form of the hormone thyroxine. Liothyronine was developed by King Pharmaceuticals and approved by the FDA in 1956.
Cytomelis the brand name
image of different drug pills on a surface
Liothyronine Sodium Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Cytomel
Liothyronine
1956
94

Approved as Treatment by the FDA

Liothyronine, commonly known as Cytomel, is approved by the FDA for 5 uses like suppression test and Thyroid Gland .
suppression test
Thyroid Gland
Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism
Helps manage Hypothyroidism
euthyroid Goitre
Helps manage euthyroid Goitre

Effectiveness

How Liothyronine Sodium Affects PatientsLiothyronine works faster than levothyroxine to replace hormones, but its effects don't last as long. Careful evaluation is needed when using this drug since it can cause heart failure if taken too quickly. It usually starts to work a few hours after taking it and reaches its full effect after 2-3 days. Studies have shown that liothyronine produces normal levels of T3 in the body, but doesn't affect T4 levels.
How Liothyronine Sodium works in the bodyLiothyronine mimics the effects of the thyroid hormone. It works by binding to the receptors in our DNA and stimulating protein and DNA production. It increases energy, helps cells burn quickly, helps mature and grow body tissues, aids in nervous system development, and boosts carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

When to interrupt dosage

The suggested measure of Liothyronine Sodium is contingent upon the diagnosed condition, including suppression test, Thyroid Gland and Comatose. The quantity of dosage can be found in the table below, dependent upon the technique of delivery (e.g. Intravenous or Oral).
Condition
Dosage
Administration
euthyroid Goitre
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
suppression test
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
Thyroid Gland
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
Comatose
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
supplemental or replacement therapy
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
Hypothyroidism
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
myxedema pre-coma
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
Hyperthyroidism
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical
Thyroid Cancer
, 0.025 mg, 0.005 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.01 mg/mL, 0.009 mg, 0.0045 mg, 0.0135 mg, 0.00225 mg, 0.018 mg, 0.0031 mg, 0.00625 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.02 mg, 0.0125 mg, 0.027 mg
, Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Intravenous, Injection, solution, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, Injection - Intravenous, Topical, Tablet - Topical

Warnings

Liothyronine Sodium Contraindications
Condition
Risk Level
Notes
uncorrected adrenal cortical insufficiency
Do Not Combine
Thyrotoxicosis
Do Not Combine
There are 20 known major drug interactions with Liothyronine Sodium.
Common Liothyronine Sodium Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Abacavir
Minor
Liothyronine may decrease the excretion rate of Abacavir which could result in a higher serum level.
Acetaminophen
Minor
Liothyronine may decrease the excretion rate of Acetaminophen which could result in a higher serum level.
Aclidinium
Minor
Liothyronine may decrease the excretion rate of Aclidinium which could result in a higher serum level.
Acrivastine
Minor
Liothyronine may decrease the excretion rate of Acrivastine which could result in a higher serum level.
Adrenalone
Minor
Liothyronine may increase the vasoconstricting activities of Adrenalone.
Liothyronine Sodium Toxicity & Overdose RiskThe highest toxic dose of liothyronine in rats has been found to be greater than 4540mg/kg. Overdosing on liothyronine can cause signs of hyperthyroidism as well as confusion, disorientation, stroke-like symptoms, seizures, shock, coma, and death. These symptoms may appear soon after the overdose or several days later. If an overdose occurs, the liothyronine dose should be reduced and supportive treatments should be given. There is no evidence that liothyronine has any effect on fertility or can cause cancer or genetic mutations.
image of a doctor in a lab doing drug, clinical research

Liothyronine Sodium Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Liothyronine Sodium?

45 active clinical trials are currently investigating the potential of Liothyronine Sodium to treat Hyperthyroidism, myxedema pre-coma and perform Suppression Tests.
Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
myxedema pre-coma
0 Actively Recruiting
Thyroid Gland
0 Actively Recruiting
Comatose
0 Actively Recruiting
suppression test
0 Actively Recruiting
euthyroid Goitre
0 Actively Recruiting
Hypothyroidism
7 Actively Recruiting
Not Applicable, Phase 4, Phase 2
Thyroid Cancer
37 Actively Recruiting
Phase 3, Phase 2, Phase 4, Not Applicable, Early Phase 1, Phase 1
supplemental or replacement therapy
0 Actively Recruiting
Hyperthyroidism
0 Actively Recruiting

Liothyronine Sodium Reviews: What are patients saying about Liothyronine Sodium?

5Patient Review
5/11/2017
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
I'm seeing some benefits, like more energy. But I can't sleep now and then I feel exhausted in the morning. Another issue is that I have almost no appetite, which would be good except I forget to eat. Hair loss is also a big problem for me; it's everywhere and I'm constantly having to pull it off of things. Not sure if the pros are worth the cons at this point.
4.7Patient Review
12/29/2014
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
This medication provides me with the energy I need. However, since starting it my blood pressure has been through the roof. I'm going to try to go off of it for a bit and see if that helps normalize things.
4.7Patient Review
7/27/2014
Liothyronine Sodium for T3 Suppression for Thyroid Function Test
Despite taking levothyroxin for a while, my thyroid levels were still off. I started this medication four months ago in order to help with that, however, I've found myself incredibly fatigued and now my sleep is easily disrupted. My hair and skin have also become dry since starting the drug.
4Patient Review
8/30/2018
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
Liothyronine has been effective for me with few to no side-effects. Additionally, it's improved my lab results significantly. The only problem I have is that some of the generic versions don't seem to work as well; I can tell when I'm taking one of those because my body feels more sluggish.
3Patient Review
9/22/2016
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
Unfortunately, I'm allergic to this medication and had to stop taking it after only 12 days. I broke out in hives all over my body, which was incredibly uncomfortable.
2.7Patient Review
5/16/2014
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
I experienced some pretty severe side effects from this medication, including headaches, dizziness, and heart palpitations. I also had a lot of trouble sleeping.
2.7Patient Review
2/13/2017
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
I've been experiencing some really troubling side effects since starting this medication. I'm gaining weight, losing hair, and having difficulty sleeping at night. Additionally, I feel a lot of pressure in my chest when walking and often feel bloated. I stopped taking the medication for a couple weeks, but went back on it today because my test results came back and the numbers had gone in the wrong direction. I'll be seeing my regular doctor on Monday and am also making an appointment with a gastroenterologist for November.
2Patient Review
6/7/2014
Liothyronine Sodium for Serious Decrease in Thyroid Function
I've only been on this medication for three weeks, but I've already noticed some pretty severe side effects. Most notably, my weight has increased significantly and I'm constantly feeling depressed. Additionally, it's been difficult to sleep and I'm usually exhausted during the day.
2Patient Review
7/19/2014
Liothyronine Sodium for T3 Suppression for Thyroid Function Test
I developed a horrible itchy rash on my upper body. My heart rate, pulse and blood pressure were all increased. I also felt like I couldn't take a deep breath.
2Patient Review
9/10/2013
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
1.7Patient Review
12/15/2013
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
I was given this medication by my psychiatrist to help with concentration and fatigue, but I haven't experienced any benefits at all.
1Patient Review
8/9/2017
Liothyronine Sodium for Mild Underactive Thyroid
I have been taking 5 MCG of Liothyronine and 25MCG of Levothyroxine for my underactive thyroid for 3 months. I have had extreme hair loss, am very fatigued, have had brain fog, stomach bloat and brittle nails. My blood pressure has gone up 20 points. I just had another blood test to check my levels and am waiting for the results. I am not sure if these symptoms are supposed to level out but I feel so much worse since taking this medication. I cannot wait to talk to my doctor.
image of drug pills surrounding a glass of water symbolizing drug consumption

Patient Q&A Section about liothyronine sodium

These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.

What is Liothyronine sodium used for?

"Liothyronine is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It can also help decrease the size of an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) and treat thyroid cancer."

Answered by AI

Does liothyronine cause weight gain?

"LT3 is more effective than LT4 at causing weight loss in older adults with subclinical hypothyroidism, according to a study presented at ENDO 2021."

Answered by AI

What are the side effects of taking T3?

"The text describes symptoms which may be indicative of a heart attack, such as weakness or shallow breathing, confusion, feeling cold, changes in weight or appetite, chest pressure, lightheadedness, severe headaches, and dizziness."

Answered by AI

When should I take Liothyronine sodium?

"Swallow the medication whole with plenty of water. You should take it on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after eating. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take the medication at the same time each day."

Answered by AI

Clinical Trials for Liothyronine Sodium

Have you considered Liothyronine Sodium clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Liothyronine Sodium, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Have you considered Liothyronine Sodium clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Liothyronine Sodium, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Have you considered Liothyronine Sodium clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Liothyronine Sodium, we think they might fit your search criteria.