Levothyroxine + Liothyronine
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Levothyroxine and Liothyronine
Autoimmune Thyroiditis, Hypothyroidism ... show more
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Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 active drug ingredients Levothyroxine and Liothyronine.
- Both drugs treat the same disease or symptom and work in similar ways.
- Taking two drugs that work in the same way usually has no advantage over one of the drugs at the right dose.
- Most doctors do not prescribe multiple drugs that work in the same ways.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
L-Thyroxine and L-Triiodothyronine
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine are primarily used to treat hypothyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. They help restore normal thyroid function and alleviate symptoms like fatigue and weight gain. These medications are also used in managing goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid gland, and thyroid cancer. Levothyroxine is often preferred for long-term management due to its stable hormone replacement, while Liothyronine may be used for rapid symptom relief or in combination with Levothyroxine for specific therapeutic needs.
Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), which is converted into the active hormone triiodothyronine (T3) in the body, providing a stable and long-term hormone replacement. Liothyronine is a synthetic form of T3, offering a more immediate effect due to its direct action. Both medications help regulate metabolism, which is the process your body uses to make energy from food, and energy levels by ensuring adequate thyroid hormone levels. They work by supplementing the thyroid hormones in the body, helping restore normal metabolism and energy levels.
Levothyroxine is usually taken orally in doses ranging from 25 to 200 micrograms per day, depending on individual needs. Liothyronine is typically prescribed in smaller doses, often starting at 25 micrograms per day, which can be adjusted based on the patient's response. Both medications should be taken on an empty stomach, usually 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption. It's important to take them consistently at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels.
Common side effects of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine include symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, weight loss, and insomnia. These effects are more likely if the dose is too high. Both medications can cause similar side effects due to their role in increasing thyroid hormone levels. Significant adverse effects may include heart palpitations, which are feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart, chest pain, and increased risk of osteoporosis with long-term use.
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine should not be used in individuals with untreated adrenal insufficiency, which is a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, or thyrotoxicosis, which is an excess of thyroid hormones. Caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disease, as these medications can increase heart rate and workload. Both medications require careful dose adjustments to avoid symptoms of hyperthyroidism. It's important for patients to inform their healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions and medications to prevent adverse effects.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine work?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine are synthetic thyroid hormones that help replace or supplement the body's natural thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), which is converted into the active hormone triiodothyronine (T3) in the body, providing a stable and long-term hormone replacement. Liothyronine is a synthetic form of T3, offering a more immediate effect due to its direct action. Both medications help regulate metabolism, energy levels, and overall bodily functions by ensuring adequate thyroid hormone levels.
How effective is combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine have been extensively studied and are well-established treatments for hypothyroidism. Clinical trials and long-term studies have demonstrated their effectiveness in normalizing thyroid hormone levels and alleviating symptoms of thyroid hormone deficiency. Levothyroxine is widely used due to its stable and predictable hormone replacement, while Liothyronine is effective for rapid symptom relief. Both medications have shown significant improvements in patients' quality of life, energy levels, and metabolic function, with regular monitoring ensuring optimal treatment outcomes.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine?
The usual adult daily dose of Levothyroxine varies based on individual needs, but it typically ranges from 25 to 200 micrograms. Liothyronine is usually prescribed in smaller doses, often starting at 25 micrograms per day, which can be adjusted based on the patient's response. Both medications require careful dose adjustments and regular monitoring to ensure optimal thyroid hormone levels in the body. The exact dosage depends on factors like age, weight, and the severity of the thyroid condition.
How does one take combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption. It's important to avoid consuming certain foods and supplements, such as calcium or iron, close to the time of taking these medications, as they can interfere with absorption. Both medications require consistent daily intake at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding any specific dietary restrictions.
For how long is combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine taken?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine are typically used as long-term treatments for hypothyroidism. Patients often need to take these medications for life to maintain normal thyroid hormone levels. While Levothyroxine provides a stable, ongoing hormone replacement, Liothyronine may be used for shorter periods or in specific situations where a rapid response is needed. Both medications require regular monitoring to adjust dosages and ensure effective management of thyroid hormone levels.
How long does it take for combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine to work?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine are thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine typically takes a few weeks to start showing noticeable effects as it gradually builds up in the body. Liothyronine, on the other hand, acts more quickly, often within a few days, due to its faster absorption and action. Both medicines work by supplementing the thyroid hormones in the body, but Liothyronine provides a quicker response, while Levothyroxine offers a more stable, long-term effect.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine?
Common side effects of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine include symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, weight loss, and insomnia, especially if the dose is too high. Both medications can cause similar side effects due to their role in increasing thyroid hormone levels. Significant adverse effects may include heart palpitations, chest pain, and increased risk of osteoporosis with long-term use. It's crucial to monitor thyroid hormone levels regularly to adjust dosages and minimize these risks. Patients should report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.
Can I take combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine with other prescription drugs?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine can interact with several prescription drugs, including anticoagulants like warfarin, which may require dose adjustments due to increased bleeding risk. Cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as cholestyramine, can reduce the absorption of thyroid hormones. Both medications can also interact with diabetes medications, potentially requiring adjustments in insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents. These interactions are common to both Levothyroxine and Liothyronine due to their effects on metabolism and absorption. Regular monitoring and communication with healthcare providers are essential to manage these interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine if I am pregnant?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine are considered safe during pregnancy and are often necessary to maintain normal thyroid hormone levels, which are crucial for fetal development. Levothyroxine is the preferred treatment due to its stable hormone replacement. Both medications require careful monitoring and dose adjustments during pregnancy to ensure optimal thyroid function. Maintaining appropriate thyroid hormone levels is essential for preventing complications such as preterm birth and developmental issues in the baby. Pregnant women should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their thyroid condition effectively.
Can I take combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine while breastfeeding?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine are generally considered safe during lactation and breastfeeding, as they are naturally occurring hormones in the body. The amounts excreted in breast milk are minimal and unlikely to affect the nursing infant. Both medications help maintain normal thyroid hormone levels in the mother, which is important for both maternal and infant health. However, it's essential for breastfeeding mothers to work closely with their healthcare provider to ensure appropriate dosing and monitoring during this period.
Who should avoid taking combination of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine?
Levothyroxine and Liothyronine should not be used in individuals with untreated adrenal insufficiency or thyrotoxicosis, as they can exacerbate these conditions. Caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disease, as these medications can increase heart rate and workload. Both medications require careful dose adjustments to avoid symptoms of hyperthyroidism. It's important for patients to inform their healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions and medications to prevent adverse effects. Regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed dosages are crucial to minimize risks.
