Cytomel Information:

Cytomel is a thyroid hormone and it works by supplementing or replacing the natural thyroid hormones in the body, when one is suffering from low thyroid function. It is also used to treat or prevent different types of goiters, as an aid to diagnose certain thyroid conditions, or to treat patients who are allergic to other thyroid medicines. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient levels of two hormones: thyroxine (known also as T4), and triiodothynine (known as T3). The symptoms of hypothyroidism are tiredness, constipation, weight gain, depression, sleepiness, memory loss, and aches and pains in the body.  Hypothyroidism affects 3 to 5 percent of the adult population and is more common in women then in men. Doctors diagnose this by having a simple blood test conducted. Cytomel L-T3 is the synthetic substitute for producing triiodothynine, so that the body retains the required level of this hormone. Cytomel is more popularly prescribed than the L-T4 drugs. The German manufacturers of Cytomel claim that the drug has been clinically proven to be more effective than L-T4 drugs. A debate amongst medical researchers is going on as to whether one hormone should be increased, or T3 and T4 should be combined and prescribed.

Cytomel tablets contain synthetic hormones derived from animal thyroids. Cytomel must be taken as prescribed, and in the case where one is suffering from a heart condition, angina or hypertension, the doctor must be told. Cytomel must be taken regularly, and if the condition has improved the drug should still be continued. Also, the brand must not be changed during treatment. The medical practitioner should be informed in the case of any other hormonal imbalances. Cytomel can be administered during pregnancy. In patients who are diabetic, changes in blood sugar levels may occur. In the case of nursing an infant the drug does pass into the breast milk, but is considered safe for consumption by the infant.

Cytomel dosage usually starts at 25 mcg daily and maybe increased after two weeks. Only in rare incidents have skin allergies been reported as a side effect with Cytomel. The doctor will prescribe the proper dosage to be taken, and monitor the course of the medication.

This article is for informational purposes only. For further instructions on Cytomel consult with your doctor.