Both T3 and T4 are hormones produced by the thyroid gland that help the body’s metabolic function. When a person suffers from hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or has had his thyroid gland removed, he needs synthetic replacement hormones. T4 is replaced by Synthroid and T3 by Cytomel. Both drugs are known to have side effects.
Common Side Effects of Cytomel
The more common side effects of Cytomel, reported by Drugs.com as well as RxList.com, are heart palpitations and irregular heart beat, aching in the calves, headache, heat intolerance, sweating, hot flushes, increased bowel activity, menstrual problems, weight gain, anxiety, irritability, depression, hair loss, chest pain and exercise intolerance.
Common Side Effects of Synthroid
Although it is generally well tolerated, according to Drugs.com, Synthroid can produce the side effects of hyperthyroidism such as weight loss, increased appetite, diarrhea or increase in bowel frequency, hair loss, anxiety, heat intolerance and menstrual irregularities. Due to the long half-life of the drug, side effects may not appear for weeks after initiating therapy or until the dosage is raised.
Severe Side Effects of Cytomel
If you experience any of the following symptoms reported by Drugs.com and the RxList from taking Cytomel, get emergency help: an allergic reaction with hives and/or swelling of the throat, mouth, tongue and face. Chronic excess or a massive overdose will produce symptoms similar to a thyroid storm, a life-threatening condition. The symptoms are extreme restlessness, shaking, confusion, nausea, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, very high blood pressure, coma or shock.
Severe Side Effects of Synthroid
Drugs.com lists serious side effects of Synthroid: a variety of cardiac symptoms such as palpitations, hypertension, tachycardia and angina. Ischemic heart disease and significant effects on cardiac function, particularly the left ventricle, can result.
When Not to Use Cytomel or Synthroid
If you suffer from the thyroid disorder thyrotoxicosis, Cytomel is contraindicated. Avoid the drug if you have Graves disease or uncontrolled adrenal gland disorder, according to the Merck Manuals. Consult your doctor for proper dosage of Cytomel if you have the following diseases: heart disease, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, diabetes or pituitary problems.
According to Merck Manuals, if you suffer from diabetes or adrenal gland disorders and do not make enough corticosteroid hormone, or if you are hypersensitive to thyroid hormone, you should not take Synthroid unless your doctor is monitoring you very carefully. If you have had a recent heart attack, you should avoid this drug.
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