What is this medicine?
Liothyronine (lye-oh-THYE-roe-neen) T3
Levothyroxine (lee-voe-thye-ROKS-een) T4
- Liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3) and levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4).
- T3 and T4 are hormones that may be given to patients who no longer produce a sufficient amount on their own. They may be prescribed alone or in combination.
- This may be used to reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
- It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
WARNING: Do not use this drug to address obesity or weight loss.
Compounded Drug Forms: tablet, capsule
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
- Allergy to liothyronine/levothyroxine
- Have any adrenal gland problems like Addison’s disease or adrenal cortical insufficiency that have not been evaluated by a medical professional.
- Have an overactive thyroid gland presenting as hyperthyroidism, Grave’s disease, or thyrotoxicosis, that has not been evaluated by a medical professional.
- Have cardiovascular disease or diabetes
How should I use this medicine?
Follow the package directions provided by Belmar Pharma Solutions and by your prescriber. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Follow the dosing schedule provided carefully.
All forms of this medication should be taken on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes prior to or 3-4 hours after food, drink, or other medications unless otherwise directed by your prescriber.
Oral dosage forms should be taken only with water.
What if I miss a dose?
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double the dose at once.
What may interact with this medicine?
- Take on an empty stomach because liothyronine and levothyroxine can interact with food, medication, and supplements.
- Iron products, calcium, magnesium, and aluminum should not be taken within 4 hours of thyroid medication.
- Discuss your complete medication regimen with your healthcare provider to determine the best therapy for you.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Belmar Pharma Solutions recommends yearly checkups with your provider, as well as heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac symptom monitoring. Your provider may require more frequent lab work and may recommend monitoring for signs of hyperthyroid.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Possible side effects that may occur and may go away as your body gets used to the medication include:
- Hair loss may occur in the first few months of use, but typically reverts to original state.
Serious side effects: Contact your doctor immediately or seek medical attention if you experience:
- Signs of high blood pressure (bad headache, dizziness, passing out, change in eyesight)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet
- Change in appetite
- Abdominal cramps, diarrhea or vomiting
- Shakiness
- Weight changes
- Heat sensitivity or fever
- Trouble sleeping
- Fever
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Bone pain or muscle pain
- Uneven or fast heartbeat
- Mood changes (increases in anxiety or irritability)
- Lump in neck
You may experience side effects not listed. Contact your doctor with questions.
An allergic reaction to this medication is unlikely but seek medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Contraindications: Thyrotoxicosis or adrenal insufficiency that have not yet been evaluated and addressed by a medical professional.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Store at room temperature between 59- and 86-degrees F, unless otherwise specified on the packaging.
Additional Information:
- Do not share this medication with others to whom it was not prescribed.
- Keep out of reach from children and pets.
- If an overdose is suspected contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you have any questions concerning this or any of your medications, a Pharmacist is available during normal business hours to answer your questions. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medication or any other medication. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does not include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. For questions about the source of any of the information provided herein, pharmacists at Belmar Pharma Solutions are available. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of this medicine.
Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to dispose of medications. There may be a drug take-back program in your area.
References:
- Levothyroxine and Liothyronine. Lexi-Drugs. Lexicomp. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Riverwoods, IL. Available at: http://online.lexi.com. Accessed March 2023.
