What is liothyronine?
Liothyronine is a synthetic form of a hormone normally created by the thyroid gland to regulate the body's energy and metabolism. The hormone is prescribed in the event that your thyroid gland is unable to make enough of it by itself.Liothyronine is used to treat the condition of hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). Liothyronine can also be prescribed to patients as part of the medical examination for thyroid problems.
Liothyronine may also be used along with the operation or radioactive iodine treatment for patients suffering from thyroid cancer.Liothyronine shouldn't be used to treat weight gain or weight issues.Liothyronine is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this medication guide.
Side effects of Liothyronine
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that are warning signs of an allergic response, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Stop taking liothyronine and contact your doctor if you experience indicators of thyroid toxicity like chest pain, rapid or beating heartbeats, feeling uncomfortable or anxious, or being sweaty more than normal.
Contact your doctor at any time if you suffer from:
- Breath that is weak or shallow;
- Confusion;
- An experience of feeling always cold;
- Fluctuations in appetite or weight;
- The pressure on your chest can be felt in your shoulder or jaw.
- An euphoric feeling, similar to passing out;
- Severe headaches and ringing within your ears; dizziness; eye problems; eye pain;
- A seizure;
- (in an adult or a child) stiffness, pain, and difficulty getting the legs moving.
Common negative side effects of liothyronine include:
- Trouble breathing
- Headache;
- Shakes, feeling anxious or angry;
- Muscles weak;
- An increase in appetite;
- Diarrhea;
- Irregular menstrual cycles;
- Weight loss;
- Feeling hot;
- The rash;
- Sleep problems (insomnia).
There isn't an exhaustive list of the possible consequences, as other effects might occur. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Liothyronine is not employed to treat weight issues or obesity.
You might not be able to use lithium if you suffer from an adrenal gland disorder that isn't managed by treatment.
Stop taking liothyronine and contact your doctor if you experience signs of thyroid toxicity that include chest pain, rapid or beating heartbeats, feeling uncomfortable or anxious, or sweating more than normal.
Before you Take this Drug
Since thyroid hormone is naturally produced in the body, everybody can take liothyronine. However, you might not be able to use this drug if you have an adrenal gland issue that isn't controlled with treatment.
Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- Issues with your pituitary or adrenal gland
- The heart condition, angina (chest pain);
- A bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
- The condition of diabetes;
- Osteoporosis, or low bone mineral density.
Consult your physician if you are nursing or pregnant.
Follow your doctor's advice on taking this medication if you are expecting. Controlling your thyroid hormone levels is vital during pregnancy. Your dosage needs could differ in each trimester.
How to Take liothyronine?
Follow the directions on the label of your prescription and also read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Follow the medication precisely as directed.Older adults are more susceptible to the effects of lithium, and dosages tend to be smaller for those in this age range.If you're switching to liothyronine in the absence of other thyroid medications, discontinue using the previous medicine prior to beginning the liothyronine.
The doses of liothyronine are based on weight (especially in teenagers and children).Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.If you are given it as part of the testing for thyroid function, the patient will have to take liothyronine for several days consecutively in preparation for your test. Inform your doctor if you do not take any doses during this period.The thyroid function of your body will have to be checked frequently. Even if you don't have symptoms, testing can aid your doctor in determining the effectiveness of this treatment.
If you require surgery, inform your doctor that you're currently using this medicine. It may be necessary to stop taking the medicine for a brief period of time.This medication can alter the outcomes of certain tests. Be sure to inform any doctor treating you that you're taking the drug liothyronine.
Continue to take this medication as prescribed, even if you are not feeling well. It is possible that you will need to take thyroid medications for the remainder of your life.Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
It is important to take your medication in the shortest time possible. However, avoid your missed dosage if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.
What Happens If I Overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms can include sweating, headaches, diarrhea, menstrual irregularities, headaches, periods, weakness, confusion, swelling of your feet or hands, a fast heart rate, and chest pain. You could also be tired, dizzy, or anxious.
What Should be Avoided?
Do not switch brands or switch to a generic drug without first consulting with your physician. Liothyronine from different manufacturers might not perform exactly the same. If you are given a refill for your prescription but your new medication is different, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Certain medicines may cause liothyronine to be less effective if taken together. If you are taking any of these medicines, be sure to take your liothyronine dosage 4 hours prior to taking another medicine.
- Cholestyramine;
- Colesevelam;
- Colestipol;
- Sevelamer.
Discuss with your doctor your current medications. A variety of drugs can alter the chemical liothyronine. These include:
- Chemotherapy medicine;
- Birth pills for control and hormone therapy
- Cough or cold medicine
- An antidepressant
- Steroid medicine;
- Seizure medicine;
- Insulin or oral diabetes medicine;
- A blood thinner (warfarin, coumadin, or Jantoven).
This list isn't complete, and a variety of other medications could alter the effects of liothyronine. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. The interactions of all drugs are listed here.
