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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Liothyronine

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Liothyronine

  • Liothyronine is a replacement or supplement to the naturally occurring thyroid hormones.
  • Your dose may change especially at the beginning of treatment until the right dose is found.
  • You must keep your regular appointment with your doctor so that your liothyronine dose can be monitored.

About liothyronine

Type of medicineThyroid hormone
Used forUnder active thyroid gland
Also known asLiothyronine sodium
Available asTablet and injection

Thyroid hormones are essential for normal metabolism and are produced naturally by the thyroid gland.

An under-active thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone which causes a condition known as hypothyroidism. This can lead to symptoms such as a pale, puffy appearance, dry coarse skin, brittle hair, a hoarse voice, slow heartbeat, muscle pain, joint pain, weakness, tiredness, constipation, weight changes and an intolerance of cold temperatures. Liothyronine is given as a medicine to correct this hormone imbalance.

Before taking liothyronine

Before taking liothyronine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from heart problems or have a history of heart problems.
  • If you have an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).
  • If you suffer from endocrine or hormone problems.
  • If you have blood pressure or circulation problems.
  • If you suffer from diabetes insipidus or diabetes mellitus.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take liothyronine

  • The dose may change especially at the beginning of treatment until the right dose for you is found.
  • Take these tablets exactly as you have been told to by your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • You must keep your regular appointment with your doctor so that your liothyronine dose can be monitored.

Can liothyronine cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Chest pain, irregular or fast heart beat, palpitations (being aware of your heat beating), muscle cramps or weakness, trembling, restlessness, excitability, problems sleeping, flushing, sweating, fever, excessive weight loss.If you experience any of the symptoms described, especially if you have more than one of them consult your doctor. The dose of your drug may need adjusting.
DiarrhoeaDrink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. If diarrhoea continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Being sickDrink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If vomiting continues to be a problem speak to your doctor.
HeadachesAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.
Rash, itching and puffinessSpeak with your doctor if this continues.

How to store liothyronine

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist

References

  • British National Formulary; 56th Edition (September 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
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dils3033		Last Reviewed:
20 Oct 2008		Version:
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