Liothyronine Tablets

Liothyronine Tablets

Specialist Treatment for Hypothyroidism

Liothyronine Sodium is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine (T3). It is primarily used for the management of severe and acute hypothyroid states, such as myxoedema coma, and in specific cases of chronic thyroid deficiency where standard therapy has been insufficient.

Clinical Indications

• Hypothyroidism: Used to replace or supplement thyroid hormone in patients with an underactive thyroid.

• Specialist Use: Generally reserved for patients who remain symptomatic on Levothyroxine (T4) monotherapy, under the strict supervision of an NHS consultant endocrinologist.

• Thyrotoxicosis Adjunct: May be used alongside other medications to maintain stable hormone levels during treatment for an overactive thyroid.

Usage & Administration

• Personalised Dosing: Dosage is highly specific to the individual and must be determined by regular thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, and T4 levels).

• Instructions: Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, ideally on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast.

• Consistency: Take your dose at the same time each day. Do not alter or stop your dose without direct medical instruction.

Important Safety Information

• Weight Loss Warning: Do not use this medication for the treatment of obesity or for weight loss. Using thyroid hormones for weight reduction in people with normal thyroid function is dangerous and can lead to serious, life-threatening toxic effects.

• Cardiac Precautions: Use with extreme caution in patients with heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), or angina.

• Pregnancy: Liothyronine is generally not recommended during pregnancy or for those planning to conceive, as it does not cross the placenta effectively to support the fetus. Consult your specialist immediately if you become pregnant.

• Monitoring: Long-term use requires monitoring of bone density, as excessive thyroid hormone can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Possible Side Effects

Signs that your dose may be too high (thyrotoxicosis) include:

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations), chest pain, or tremors.

• Excessive sweating, heat intolerance, and unexplained weight loss.

• Anxiety, restlessness, or insomnia.

• Action: If you experience any heart-related symptoms, stop use and contact your doctor or emergency services immediately.

Composition & Storage

• Active Ingredient: Liothyronine Sodium.

• Allergen Note: Most formulations contain Lactose. Check with your pharmacist if you have a known sugar intolerance.

• Storage: Store in the original container below 25°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.