Cytomel is the commercial name for liothyronine sodium, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone triiodothyronine, or T3. Cytomel is a synthesized sodium salt. In the bodybuilding and weight-loss worlds, the Cytomel diet purports to burn fat. However, the Food and Drug Administration has not approved Cytomel for this purpose. The only FDA-approved use of this prescription drug is to regulate a thyroid hormone imbalance that can cause obesity.
The Fat-Burning Theory
Cytomel stimulates receptors in your fat tissue. These receptors activate hormone-sensitive lipase. HSL can help your body break down fat. Therefore, Cytomel can indirectly lead to an increased production of HSL, facilitating the breakdown of fat. Additionally, Cytomel can help your body break down lipids and can activate the human growth hormone.
Pharmaceutics Information
Doctors prescribe the oral Cytomel tablet as a supplemental therapy in the treatment of hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormones such as Cytomel increase your metabolism, according to "The Everything Thyroid Diet Book: Manage Your Metabolism and Control Your Weight," by Kelly Frick. Cytomel exerts an effect on virtually every organ system in your body, including your central nervous system.
Outcomes
Correction of hypothyroidism through the administration of Cytomel can increase your heart rate and the rate and depth of respiration. Cytomel enhances protein and carbohydrate metabolism. Because your body synthesizes foods more rapidly, it is less likely to convert the foods you eat into fat.
Adverse Effects
The only approved use of this medication is to treat hypothyroidism. Cytomel is not an approved weight-loss pill. Side effects associated with Cytomel include allergic reactions, arrhythmia and hypotension. Additional side effects include twitching, fever, hypertension and congestive heart failure. Use Cytomel only under a doctor's supervision.
References
- "Physicians' Desk Reference 2011"; PDR Staff; 2010
- "The Everything Thyroid Diet Book: Manage Your Metabolism and Control Your Weight"; Kelly Frick; 2011
- "Nurse's Handbook of Combination Drugs, Second Edition"; Jones & Bartlett Learning; 2009
Member Comments