Euro-Pharmacies T3 bag 50 tabs (50 mcg/tab)

Liothyronine – Cytomel

Thyroid hormones, synthesized naturally in the body, are often replicated synthetically by pharmaceutical companies due to their simple molecular structure. Two primary types of thyroid hormones exist: T4 (levothyroxine) and T3 (liothyronine), which are produced and stored in the thyroid gland.

Pharmaceutical thyroid hormones are sourced either from animal glands (bovine or ovine) or synthesized. In the USA, the amount of iodine in these preparations is strictly regulated.

Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) is offered in tablet form and is a salt of a naturally occurring thyroid hormone. T3 is significantly more potent than T4.

Pharmacology

The exact mechanism of thyroid hormones remains elusive, but they induce various biochemical changes within cells, providing energy and enhancing oxygen consumption. Users of thyroid hormones typically experience a higher basal metabolic rate, and these hormones impact nearly every organ, including the brain. Observing patients deficient in thyroid hormones highlights their critical importance.

Dosage

Thyroid hormones are rapidly absorbed in the bloodstream, with effects felt within hours; however, peak action may take several days. The hormone remains in circulation for a few days due to its binding to albumin, protecting it from liver degradation.

• Replacement therapy for patients with hypothyroidism
• Replacement therapy post-thyroid surgery
• Management of goiters and thyroid nodules
• Diagnostic agents in suppression tests for differentiating suspected hyperthyroidism from thyroid gland autonomy
• Alternative for those allergic to porcine or bovine thyroids

Body Builders and Weight Loss

Amateur and professional athletes have historically misused thyroid hormones like Cytomel for weight loss, capitalizing on their ability to efficiently burn fats and carbohydrates. Cytomel is commonly used across various sports disciplines, typically taken orally for 4-6 weeks before cessation a week before events. Its efficacy as a fat burner and performance enhancer is well-documented, though often accompanied by other supplements, complicating outcomes.

Online recommendations suggest starting with 25 ug/day, with gradual increases of 5-10 ug/day and a maximum of 100 ug/day to minimize side effects. Weight loss can take 6-12 weeks, but users should taper off to prevent thyroid insufficiency due to hormonal suppression.

Consulting a physician before utilizing thyroid hormones for off-label uses, such as weight loss, is strongly advised.

Signs and Symptoms

Excess thyroid hormone may lead to numerous side effects including:

• Headaches
• Mood changes: irritability, nervousness, anxiety
• Increased sweating
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Palpitations
• Chest pain
• Diarrhea
• Menstrual irregularities
• Aggravated heart failure
• Shock

Severe overdose symptoms can mirror a thyroid storm, while chronic overuse manifests as hyperthyroidism symptoms.

Contraindications

Liothyronine is contraindicated for individuals with untreated adrenal insufficiency, untreated thyrotoxicosis, or known hypersensitivity to its ingredients. True allergic reactions to liothyronine are extremely rare.

Signs and Symptoms

While many seek thyroid hormone primarily for weight loss, combining it with other substances can pose serious risks. Therapeutic doses often fail to yield significant weight loss, requiring much higher doses, which can be life-threatening, especially with concomitant agents like ephedrine.

Careful administration is necessary for patients with conditions such as adrenal insufficiency or diabetes, and dosages must be adjusted to reduce the risk of complications like increased bleeding from oral anticoagulants.

Liothyronine is misused without medical endorsement for infertility, yet there is no scientific proof of its effectiveness in this area. It is imperative that those with cardiovascular issues consult a physician before beginning treatment, and that low doses are prioritized.

Levels

Thyroid hormone levels can be readily monitored by sporting organizations like IOC and WADA, with sensitive radioimmunoassays detecting minute traces in urine.

Drug Interactions

Liothyronine may interact with various medications, including:

• Oral anticoagulants
• Insulin or oral hypoglycemics
• Cholestyramine
• Estrogens, including oral contraceptives
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Digitalis

Physicians must ensure thyroid hormone dosages are appropriate, with regular patient monitoring recommended.

Treatment of Overdosage

In suspected cases of thyroid hormone overdose, hospitalization is mandatory. The hormone should be temporarily halted, with close observation and monitoring. Most overdose cases require cessation for 4-8 weeks, allowing thyroid recovery. As no specific antidotes exist, supportive care is the primary approach. Inducing vomiting is contraindicated due to aspiration risks, and comatose patients might need mechanical ventilation. Fluid resuscitation, oxygen, and observation are typically sufficient, though beta-adrenergic blockers may be necessary in some instances.

Dosage

Liothyronine is available in tablet form dosed once daily, with the exact dosage tailored to the level of hypothyroidism. Treatment with liothyronine should always begin at the lowest effective dose due to its rapid action. Initial dosage for Cytomel is 5 mcg/day, increasing by 5 mcg every 2-3 weeks. Avoiding high doses is crucial to prevent exacerbating heart conditions. Typically, a daily range of 50-75 ug is adequate. Liothyronine also comes as an intravenous formulation, particularly useful in the management of myxedema coma, a severe and life-threatening complication of hypothyroidism more common in elderly women. Liothyronine is available in 5, 25, and 50 ug tablets and requires a prescription in the USA.