Sterling Knight T3 40 tabs (50 mcg/tab)

Liothyronine – Cytomel

Thyroid hormones, while naturally produced in the body, are often synthesized by pharmaceutical companies due to their simple molecular structure. The two principal types are T4, known as levothyroxine, and T3, referred to as liothyronine, both stored and manufactured in the thyroid gland.

Pharmaceutical thyroid hormones are sourced in two ways: from animal thyroid glands (bovine or ovine) or produced synthetically. In the USA, strict regulations govern the iodine content in these preparations.

Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) is available as both tablets and as a naturally occurring thyroid hormone salt. Notably, T3 is significantly more potent than T4.

Pharmacology

The precise mechanisms of thyroid hormones remain largely unknown; however, they are known to trigger a wide array of biochemical transformations within cells. These hormones play a pivotal role in energy production and enhance the metabolic consumption of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, along with elevating oxygen consumption. Individuals utilizing thyroid hormone typically experience an increased basal metabolic rate, impacting nearly every organ, including the brain. The fundamental importance of thyroid hormones becomes evident when observing those with deficiencies.

Dosage

Thyroid hormones are efficiently absorbed from the stomach into the bloodstream, with onset occurring within hours, although peak effects may take several days. These hormones are retained in the body for several days due to their binding to albumin, which protects them from liver metabolism.

• Replacement therapy for hypothyroidism
• Post-surgical therapy following thyroid removal
• Treatment for goiters and thyroid nodules
• Diagnostic agents in suppression tests to assess suspected hyperthyroidism vs. thyroid autonomy
• Alternatives for those with allergies to pork or beef thyroid gland

Body Builders and Weight Loss

For decades, both amateur and professional athletes have exploited thyroid hormones to achieve weight loss. By promoting the combustion of fats and carbohydrates, these hormones have become popular among athletes across various sports. Users typically take Cytomel orally for 4-6 weeks, halting usage one week before competition. Many athletes report effective fat-burning and enhanced performance, although the complexity of their supplementation regimens complicates clear outcomes.

Internet sources commonly recommend starting Cytomel at 25 mcg daily for a few weeks, gradually increasing by 5-10 mcg/day, with a maximum of 100 mcg/day to avoid side effects. Anecdotal evidence suggests it may take 6-12 weeks for noticeable weight loss results. It is crucial to taper the dosages gradually after stopping to prevent thyroid insufficiency from developing.

Consultation with a physician is strongly advised before using thyroid hormones for off-label purposes like weight loss.

Signs and Symptoms

Excess thyroid hormone may lead to numerous side effects, including:

• Headaches
• Mood swings—irritability, anxiety
• Increased perspiration
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Chest pain
• Palpitations
• Diarrhea
• Menstrual irregularities
• Deterioration of heart failure
• Shock

Overdosage can mirror symptoms of a thyroid storm, and chronic high doses lead to hyperthyroidism symptoms.

Contraindications

Thyroid hormone use is generally contraindicated for individuals with untreated adrenal insufficiency, untreated thyrotoxicosis, or hypersensitivity to any component. True allergic reactions to liothyronine are rare.

Signs and Symptoms

Many people resort to thyroid hormones for weight loss, often combining them with other supplements. Therapeutic doses in typical patients aren’t effective for weight loss; significantly higher doses are required, which can be perilous. These elevated doses pose life-threatening risks, particularly when combined with other weight loss agents like ephedrine.

Caution is required in medical conditions like adrenal insufficiency, diabetes, and sensitivities to anticoagulants, which can lead to increased bleeding risks.

Levels

Thyroid hormone levels can be readily checked, and all major sporting organizations routinely test for these hormones.

Drug Interactions

Liothyronine may interact with several drugs, including:

• Oral anticoagulants
• Insulin or oral hypoglycemics
• Cholestyramine
• Estrogens and oral contraceptives
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Digitalis

Physicians must ensure dosages remain within safe limits, with ongoing patient monitoring.

Treatment of Overdosage

In suspected cases of thyroid hormone overdose, the patient should be hospitalized, the hormone halted, and monitored accordingly. Recovery can take 4-8 weeks, with no specific antidotes available. Supportive care is paramount, and in emergencies, beta-blockers may be administrated to manage symptoms.

Dosage

Liothyronine is prescribed once daily, with dosages tailored to the level of hypothyroidism. Therapy should begin at minimal doses due to its rapid action onset. The initial dose for Cytomel is 5 mcg/day, with increments not exceeding 5 mcg every 2-3 weeks. High starting doses can worsen pre-existing cardiac issues. Typically, doses of 50-75 mcg/day may suffice. Additionally, an intravenous form exists, utilized for treating myxedema coma—a severe hypothyroid condition, most common in elderly women.

Liothyronine tablets come in strengths of 5, 25, and 50 mcg. In the USA, a doctor’s prescription is required for l-thyronine.