Cytomel, also known as T3, is one of the active thyroid replacement hormones needed in people who suffer from hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and those who have had their thyroid glands removed. Read below for side effects of this drug.
What is Cytomel?
Cytomel is a man-made form of the hormone T3, that is ordinarily produced by the thyroid gland and is necessary to regulate a person's energy and metabolic function, reports Drugs.com. Cytomel is available in a generic form known as Liothyronine Sodium.
Common Side Effects
More commonly seen side effects of Cytomel reported by Drugs.com, as well as RxList.com, are headache, heat intolerance, sweating, hot flashes, weight gain, heart palpitations and irregular heart beat, aching in the calves, anxiety, irritability, increased bowel activity, menstrual problems, as well as depression, hair loss, chest pain and exercise intolerance.
Severe Side Effects
Both Drugs.com and RxList continue to report more serious side effects and advise getting emergency help if you experience an allergic reaction with hives and/or swelling of the throat, mouth, tongue and face. Chronic excess or a massive overdose of Cytomel will produce symptoms resembling thyroid storm, a life threatening condition where there is too much thyroid hormone in the body. Symptoms of thyroid storm are extreme restlessness, overly fast heartbeat, shaking confusion, nausea, diarrhea, excessively high blood pressure, coma or shock.
When Not to Use Cytomel
This thyroid hormone is contra-indicated for people with a thyroid disorder called thyrotoxicosis, Graves disease or an uncontrolled adrenal gland disorder, according to the Merck Manuals. If you have the following diseases be sure to consult your doctor for a possible adjustment in dose: Heart disease, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, diabetes or pituitary problems.
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