Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism is also used to treat or prevent goiter , and is also given as part of a medical tests for thyroid disorders. Cytomel is available in generic form.

The dosage if thyroid hormones is determined by the indication and must in every case be individualized according to patient response and laboratory findings.

Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) Tablets are intended for oral administration; once-a-day dosage is recommended. Although liothyronine sodium has a rapid cutoff, its metabolic effects persist for a few days following discontinuance.

Recommended starting dosage is 20 mcg daily. Daily dosage then may be increased by up to 20 mcg every 1 or 2 weeks. Usual maintenance dose is 20 to 80 mcg daily.

The rapid onset and dissipation of action of liothyronine sodium (T3), as compared with levothyroxine sodium (T4), has led some clinicians to prefer its use in patients who might be more susceptible to the untoward effects of thyroid medication. However, the wide swings in serum T levels that follow its administration and the possibility of more pronounced cardiovascular side effects tend to counterbalance the stated advantages.

Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) Tablets may be used in preference to levothyroxine (T4) during radiosotope scanning procedures, since induction of hypothyroidism in those cases is more abrupt and can be of shorter duration. It may also be preferred when impairment of peripheral conversion of T4 to T3 is suspected.

Adverse reactions, other than those indicative of hyperthyroidism because of therapeutic overdosage, either initially or during the maintenance period are rare. In rare instances, allergic skin reactions have been reported with Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) Tablets.

What Are Side Effects of Cytomel?
Common side effects of Cytomel include:
• nausea.
In rare cases, temporary hair loss may occur during the first few months of starting Cytomel (especially in children). Tell your doctor immediately if you experience unlikely but serious signs of too much thyroid hormone including:

• headache,
• irritability,
• trouble sleeping,
• nervousness,
• increased sweating,
• heat intolerance,
• diarrhea, and
• menstrual changes.

Dosage for Cytomel
To treat mild hypothyroidism the recommended starting dose of Cytomel is 20 mcg daily. Usual maintenance dose is 20 to 80 mcg daily. Dosage for other conditions varies.