Liothyronine: how to take it safely
Cytomel
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Replaces thyroid hormone when the thyroid does not make enough.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
When to take it
Take it at the same time each day, usually in the morning.
Take it with
On an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast.
What to avoid
- Taking it within 4 hours of iron, calcium, antacids or cholestyramine.
- Stopping without advice.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart disease.
Possible side effects
Palpitations, sweating, trembling, anxiety, trouble sleeping (if the dose is too high).
Get help if
Chest pain, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, or severe breathlessness: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.