Cytomel

Common use

Cytomel treats hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). This medicine is also given as part of a medical test for thyroid disorders. Cytomel is also used together with surgery and radioactive iodine therapy in people with thyroid cancer. Cytomel is a man-made form of a hormone that is normally produced by your thyroid gland to regulate the body's energy and metabolism. This medicine is given when the thyroid does not produce enough of this hormone on its own.

Dosage and direction

It is generally taken in the morning, often 30-60 minutes before breakfast. The medication should be taken without food to ensure proper absorption, allowing for a sufficient interval after the last meal. The dosage is individualized based on the patient's condition, with healthcare providers determining the appropriate starting amount. It is essential to take it consistently at the same time, according to the specific schedule determined by a healthcare provider, who will adjust the amount based on regular thyroid blood tests.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have ever had: problems with your pituitary or adrenal gland; heart disease, angina (chest pain); a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; diabetes; or osteoporosis or low bone mineral density.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Follow your doctor's instructions about using this medicine if you are pregnant. Controlling your thyroid hormone levels is very important during pregnancy, and your dose needs may be different during each trimester.

Contraindications

Cytomel should not be used to treat obesity or weight problems. You may not be able to use Cytomel if you have an adrenal gland problem that is not controlled by treatment.
Stop taking Cytomel and call your doctor if you have symptoms of thyroid toxicity, such as chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats, feeling hot or nervous, or sweating more than usual.

Possible side effect

Common side effects of Cytomel may include: trouble breathing; headache; tremors, feeling nervous or irritable; muscle weakness; increased appetite; diarrhea; irregular menstrual periods; weight loss; feeling hot; rash; or sleep problems (insomnia).

Drug interaction

Some medicines can make Cytomel much less effective when taken at the same time. If you take any of the following medicines, take your this medicine dose 4 hours before you take the other medicine: cholestyramine; colesevelam; colestipol; or sevelamer.
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines. Many drugs can affect Cytomel, especially: cancer medicine; birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy; cough or cold medicine; an antidepressant; steroid medicine; seizure medicine; insulin or oral diabetes medicine; or a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven).

Missed dose

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include headache, sweating, diarrhea, irregular menstrual periods, confusion, weakness, swelling in your hands or feet, fast heart rate, chest pain, feeling short of breath, fainting, or feeling nervous, restless, or irritable.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep away from children and pets.