Clinical info on liothyronine
Liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3), one of the two primary thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland. It is commonly used in the treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones.
Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of liothyronine in improving symptoms and normalizing thyroid hormone levels in patients with hypothyroidism. One study, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, investigated the effects of liothyronine and levothyroxine (T4) combination therapy versus levothyroxine monotherapy in patients with hypothyroidism. The study found that combination therapy resulted in greater improvements in quality of life and symptoms compared to T4 monotherapy (1).
Another study, published in Thyroid, compared the effects of liothyronine monotherapy with levothyroxine monotherapy in hypothyroid patients. The study found that both treatments resulted in similar improvements in thyroid hormone levels, but liothyronine monotherapy led to greater improvements in cognitive function and mood compared to levothyroxine monotherapy (2).
Note that liothyronine is typically prescribed as an adjunct therapy with levothyroxine. Levothyroxine is the standard treatment for hypothyroidism, as it is a prohormone that is converted into both T3 and T4 in the body. However, some individuals may have difficulty converting T4 into T3, necessitating the addition of liothyronine to their treatment regimen (3).
It is also worth mentioning that liothyronine, especially when administered at higher doses, may have side effects such as heart palpitations, increased heart rate, and nervousness (4). These side effects should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals.
Liothyronine has shown promise as an effective treatment option for individuals with hypothyroidism, particularly those who may have difficulties converting T4 to T3. However, it is essential to consider individual patient needs and closely monitor for any potential side effects.
References
1. Escobar-Morreale HF, et al. Decreased doses of liothyronine combined with levothyroxine compared with liothyronine alone in primary hypothyroidism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003;88(12):5536-5542.
2. Clyde PW, et al. Combined liothyronine and levothyroxine for treatment of hypothyroidism: a brief review. Thyroid. 2001;11(6):613-617.
3. Biondi B, Wartofsky L. Combination therapy for hypothyroidism: is there a role? J Endocrinol Invest. 2012;35(8):692-699.
4. Liothyronine Sodium [package insert]. Marketed by various manufacturers. Revised May 2020.
Compounded liothyronine
Liothyronine (T3) is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine, one of the primary thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland. It is commonly used in the treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones.
While there are commercially available formulations of liothyronine, some patients may require tailored compounded formulations to address their specific needs. Compounded medications can provide flexibility and customization, allowing for customized dosage strengths and the elimination of certain ingredients that may be problematic for some patients.
Revelation Pharma offers compounded formulations of liothyronine that are prepared according to a patient’s specific requirements. We offer sustained-release preparations of liothyronine, which can be beneficial for patients who experience side effects from immediate-acting formulations. Lower doses of T3 may also be preferred by some practitioners. Our compounding pharmacies can assist in customizing the dosage strength and formulation to ensure that patients receive the precise amount of medication needed.
In addition, compounded formulations can be beneficial for patients who have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients found in commercially available products. Our compounding pharmacies can create formulations that exclude those problematic ingredients, providing patients with a medication that is safe and tailored to their needs.
With the recent recall of liothyronine sodium tablets by Sun Pharma, patients who have been affected by the recall may consider compounded alternatives to ensure the purity and effectiveness of their medication. Our compounding pharmacies can provide liothyronine in tailored dosages, ensuring patients receive the optimal treatment for their specific condition.
At Revelation Pharma, we understand the importance of personalized medicine in thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Our compounded formulations of liothyronine offer flexibility, customization, and the assurance of quality and purity. We work closely with healthcare providers to meet the individual needs of patients and provide them with the best possible care.
References
Escobar-Morreale HF, Botella-Carretero JI, Escobar del Rey F, Morreale de Escobar G. “Review: Treatment of hypothyroidism with combinations of levothyroxine plus liothyronine. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. 2005;90:4946-54.
“Liothyronine USP Safety Data Sheet”. Reference Standards. US Pharmacopeia. 2009 Apr 10;3:5659-65. Revised: 2012 Nov 26.
“Liothyronine Sodium-liothyronine sodium tablet.” Carilion Materials Management. 2014 May.
Vanderpump M, et al. “Consensus statement for good practice and audit measures in the management of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.” British Medical Journal. 1996 Aug 31;313:539-44.
Robinson P. Recovering With T3: My Journey from Hypothyroidism to Good Health Using the T3 Thyroid Hormone. Elephant in the Room Books. 30 Nov 2011.
