Our custom-compounded Levothyroxine Sodium 19 mcg/Liothyronine 4.5 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are meticulously formulated to manage thyroid hormone deficiencies, a condition commonly known as hypothyroidism. This formulation combines two synthetic thyroid hormones, levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3), which are identical to the hormones naturally produced by the thyroid gland. The precise balance of T4 and T3 in our capsules ensures a comprehensive approach to therapy, addressing the needs of patients who may not adequately convert T4 to the more active T3 form.

The incorporation of Methocel E4M, a high-viscosity grade hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, allows for a controlled-release mechanism. This polymer swells and forms a gel matrix when exposed to gastrointestinal fluids, enabling a slow and consistent release of the active thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. This slow-release delivery system mimics the body's natural secretion of thyroid hormones, maintaining steady hormone levels throughout the day, which can lead to a reduction in symptom fluctuation and an overall improvement in the patient's quality of life.

By utilizing this controlled-release technology, our formulation minimizes the peaks and troughs associated with immediate-release thyroid hormone replacements, potentially reducing side effects and enhancing the stability of thyroid hormone levels. This is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty maintaining consistent thyroid levels or who experience side effects with traditional formulations. The reduced dosing frequency also promotes better patient compliance, a critical factor in the long-term management of hypothyroidism.

Our slow-release capsules are especially suited for patients with conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroidectomy, or those who are unresponsive to conventional levothyroxine therapy alone. It is important to note that each patient's thyroid hormone requirements are unique, and our pharmacy team is dedicated to working closely with prescribers to tailor the dosage to the individual needs of the patient.

For optimal efficacy, these capsules should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to ensure maximum absorption. Regular monitoring of thyroid function tests is recommended to adjust the dose as needed and to ensure therapeutic goals are being met.

If you have any questions or require further information about our Levothyroxine Sodium 19 mcg/Liothyronine 4.5 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of expert compounding pharmacists is committed to providing the highest quality care and is ready to assist with any inquiries or concerns regarding this specialized formulation.

Levothyroxine sodium and liothyronine are synthetic forms of thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine is a synthetic version of thyroxine (T4), while liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are vital for maintaining the body's metabolism, heart, and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance. It is crucial to be aware of potential drug interactions when taking levothyroxine sodium and liothyronine, as they can affect the absorption and metabolism of these hormones, as well as their efficacy and safety.

One of the most significant interactions is with antacids, calcium carbonate, and iron supplements, which can reduce the absorption of thyroid hormones from the gastrointestinal tract. Patients should take these supplements at least 4 hours before or after the thyroid medication to minimize the interaction. Similarly, cholestyramine, colestipol, and orlistat can also decrease the absorption of thyroid hormones and should be taken several hours apart from levothyroxine and liothyronine.

Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2 receptor antagonists may decrease stomach acid, potentially affecting the absorption of thyroid hormones. Patients on these medications may require monitoring and possible dose adjustments of their thyroid medication. Additionally, certain foods like soybean flour, cottonseed meal, walnuts, dietary fiber, and grapefruit juice may affect the absorption of thyroid hormones and should not be consumed within several hours of taking the medication.

Drugs that induce hepatic enzymes, such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin, can increase the metabolism of thyroid hormones, potentially necessitating a dose increase. Conversely, medications like amiodarone, lithium, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors can increase thyroid hormone levels, which may require a dose reduction of levothyroxine and liothyronine.

Levothyroxine and liothyronine can also affect blood sugar levels, and patients with diabetes should be monitored closely as their antidiabetic medication regimen may need adjustment. Additionally, the use of sympathomimetic agents or stimulants in patients taking thyroid hormones can increase the risk of coronary insufficiency, particularly in those with cardiovascular disease.

It is also important to note that levothyroxine and liothyronine can interact with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and antipsychotic medications, potentially leading to increased effects of these drugs or altered thyroid hormone levels. Patients should be monitored for signs of toxicity or the need for dose adjustments.

Lastly, warfarin and other anticoagulants can have their effects potentiated by thyroid hormones, increasing the risk of bleeding. INR levels should be monitored, and the dose of anticoagulant may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Due to the complexity of these interactions, it is essential for patients and prescribers to communicate openly about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products being taken. Dose adjustments and monitoring may be necessary to ensure the safe and effective use of levothyroxine sodium and liothyronine slow-release capsules. If you have any questions or require further information, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy.

The Levothyroxine Sodium 19 mcg/Liothyronine 4.5 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are a specialized formulation designed to manage thyroid hormone deficiencies, such as hypothyroidism, by providing a steady release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. This formulation utilizes Methocel E4M, a hydrophilic methylcellulose polymer, which swells and forms a gel-like matrix upon contact with gastrointestinal fluids. The encapsulated active ingredients, levothyroxine sodium and liothyronine, are then gradually released from this matrix.

Levothyroxine sodium is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), a hormone normally produced by the thyroid gland, which is responsible for regulating metabolism, energy production, and many other vital functions. Liothyronine is the synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3), another thyroid hormone that is more potent and acts faster than T4. The combination of T4 and T3 in this formulation ensures that patients receive a comprehensive replacement therapy, mimicking the natural ratio of thyroid hormones produced by a healthy thyroid gland.

The slow-release mechanism provided by Methocel E4M is particularly beneficial for thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It ensures a more consistent serum concentration of the hormones, avoiding the peaks and troughs associated with immediate-release formulations. This can lead to improved symptom control and a reduction in side effects, as the body is better able to maintain a steady state of thyroid hormones. Additionally, the reduced dosing frequency enhances patient compliance, as patients need to remember to take their medication less often.

This formulation is tailored for patients who require a controlled release of thyroid hormones due to their inability to produce sufficient amounts of these hormones naturally. It is particularly useful for those who have undergone thyroidectomy, have autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, or have been treated for hyperthyroidism and now require thyroid hormone replacement. The precise dosing of levothyroxine and liothyronine in this formulation can be adjusted to meet the individual needs of patients, based on their thyroid function tests and clinical response.

For prescribers, it is important to note that the initiation and titration of this formulation should be guided by regular monitoring of thyroid function tests, including serum TSH, free T4, and free T3 levels. Adjustments to the dosage should be made based on these laboratory results and the patient's clinical response. As with all medications, potential interactions with other drugs, food, and supplements should be considered, as they can affect the absorption and metabolism of thyroid hormones.

Patients and prescribers interested in this slow-release thyroid hormone formulation are encouraged to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for further information and guidance. Our team of compounding pharmacists is available to answer any questions and provide support to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

The primary use of Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine in a slow-release capsule formulation is to provide thyroid hormone replacement therapy for individuals with hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This combination of thyroid hormones in the form of Levothyroxine (a synthetic form of thyroxine T4) and Liothyronine (a synthetic form of triiodothyronine T3) in slow-release form aims to closely mimic the natural secretion of these hormones by the thyroid gland, thus helping to maintain steady hormone levels over the course of the day and reduce fluctuations in energy levels and mood, which can be a concern with immediate-release formulations.

Aside from their use in hypothyroidism, these slow-release thyroid hormone capsules may also have an adjunctive role in treating other thyroid-related disorders, such as goiter or thyroid cancer, where suppression of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is desirable. Furthermore, the slow-release formulation may be of interest for individuals who have undergone thyroidectomy, as a steadier release of thyroid hormones could potentially offer better management of their post-surgical hormone replacement needs.

Although less common, this medication may also be prescribed off-label to individuals with euthyroid sick syndrome or those undergoing rapid weight loss protocols, where T3 levels are found to be low. However, it is important to acknowledge that the use of thyroid hormones for weight loss in euthyroid patients is not typically recommended due to the potential risks and lack of long-term efficacy data. Patients and healthcare providers should carefully weigh the therapeutic benefits against the potential risks when considering use for off-label indications.

In any scenario, the advantages of utilizing a slow-release dosage form include minimization of potential side effects that can occur with peaks and troughs of hormone levels, and the inconvenience of multiple daily dosing. It's essential for prescribers to monitor thyroid function tests periodically to adjust the dose to the individual needs of the patient. The specific composition of Methocel E4M within these capsules facilitates a controlled release of the active ingredients, forming a gel-like matrix in the digestive tract upon contact with water, which then slowly releases the medication.

Patients and prescribers considering the use of Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine slow-release capsules should have a thorough understanding of the patient's thyroid function history, and any concurrent medications that could interact with thyroid hormones. As with any compounded pharmaceutical, it is important to obtain these medications from reputable pharmacies that ensure consistent quality and dosing accuracy.

If you have any questions or require further clarification regarding the uses, benefits, or appropriate management of Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine slow-release capsules, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is equipped to provide detailed information and guidance tailored to each patient's unique needs.