Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine are synthetic forms of thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Levothyroxine Sodium is a synthetic version of thyroxine (T4), while Liothyronine is the synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are crucial for maintaining the body's metabolism, heart, and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance. By combining both T4 and T3, this formulation can benefit patients who do not adequately convert T4 to T3 with levothyroxine alone, providing a more comprehensive treatment approach.

The Levothyroxine Sodium 60 mcg/Liothyronine 15 mcg Oral Capsules are a solid dosage form that offers a convenient and precise way to administer these medications. The capsules are made from either gelatin or vegetarian shells, depending on patient preference or dietary restrictions, and are designed for easy swallowing. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty with other dosage forms or require a precise combination of T4 and T3 that is not available in standard tablet formulations.

For prescribers, it is important to note that the dosing of thyroid hormones must be individualized based on patient response and laboratory measurements of thyroid function tests. Regular monitoring of TSH and free T4 levels is recommended to ensure the dose is appropriate. The use of this combination therapy should be approached cautiously, as overtreatment can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, while undertreatment may not adequately address the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Patients should be advised to take the capsules consistently, preferably on an empty stomach, to maximize absorption. They should also be aware of potential side effects, which may include but are not limited to, heart palpitations, rapid weight loss, tremors, or insomnia. Any side effects or concerns should be promptly discussed with their healthcare provider.

At Bayview Pharmacy, we are committed to providing high-quality compounded medications tailored to patient and prescriber needs. Our team of knowledgeable compounding pharmacists is available to answer any questions regarding this formulation or other medication needs. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

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 responsible for maintaining the body's metabolism, heart, and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance. By supplementing the body's thyroid hormone levels, this combination therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance.

When taking levothyroxine sodium and liothyronine oral capsules, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that can affect the efficacy of the medication or cause adverse effects. Certain medications can decrease the absorption of thyroid hormones, such as calcium carbonate, ferrous sulfate (iron supplements), and antacids containing aluminum or magnesium. To avoid this interaction, it is recommended to take thyroid hormones at least 4 hours before or after these agents.

Other drugs, like estrogen-containing products, bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol), and proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole), can also affect thyroid hormone levels and may necessitate dosage adjustments. Additionally, medications that induce hepatic enzymes, such as rifampin and phenobarbital, can increase the metabolism of thyroid hormones, potentially leading to a decrease in their effectiveness.

Conversely, certain drugs can increase blood levels of thyroid hormones, which may require a reduction in the dosage of levothyroxine and liothyronine. These include tyrosine kinase inhibitors, beta-blockers, and sertraline. Furthermore, diabetes medications may need adjustment since thyroid hormones can increase blood glucose levels.

It is also important to monitor the use of sympathomimetic agents (such as pseudoephedrine) or stimulants, as these can exacerbate the cardiovascular effects of thyroid hormones. Patients with cardiovascular disease should be particularly cautious and should be monitored closely for signs of overstimulation of the heart.

Lastly, it is crucial to avoid taking levothyroxine and liothyronine at the same time as foods that can reduce absorption, such as soybean flour, cottonseed meal, walnuts, dietary fiber, and grapefruit juice. It is generally recommended to take thyroid hormone capsules on an empty stomach, at least 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast.

Due to the complexity of these interactions, it is essential for patients and prescribers to review all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, with a healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of levothyroxine and liothyronine. If you have any questions or concerns about potential drug interactions with this formulation, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for personalized advice and support.

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 Sodium is a synthetic version of thyroxine (T4), while Liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are crucial for maintaining the body's metabolism, heart, and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance.

In this formulation, Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine are combined in a single oral capsule, providing a fixed ratio of 60 mcg of Levothyroxine to 15 mcg of Liothyronine. This combination mimics the natural ratio of T4 to T3 produced by the healthy human thyroid gland. The solid dosage form consists of two gelatin or vegetarian shells that enclose the medication. This capsule form is designed to be easily swallowed and to ensure that patients receive an accurate and consistent dose of the active ingredients with each administration.

The mechanism of action for these hormones involves their entry into the body's cells, where they bind to thyroid hormone receptors in the nucleus and exert their effects by modulating the transcription of various genes. This process regulates numerous physiological functions, including metabolism, energy generation, and protein synthesis. By supplementing the body's deficient thyroid hormone levels with Levothyroxine and Liothyronine, the symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance, can be alleviated, and normal metabolic activity can be restored.

It is important for patients and prescribers to understand that the balance of T4 and T3 provided by this formulation is critical, as too much or too little of either hormone can lead to undesirable effects. The precise dosing in this capsule form allows for better control of thyroid hormone levels within the body. Additionally, the use of this combination therapy may be particularly beneficial for patients who do not adequately convert T4 to T3, providing a more direct increase in T3 levels, which is the more metabolically active form of the hormone.

For optimal results, the capsules should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to enhance absorption. Consistency in the timing of the dose is also important to maintain stable hormone levels throughout the day. As with any medication, it is essential to follow the dosing regimen prescribed by a healthcare provider and to have regular monitoring of thyroid function tests to adjust the dose as necessary.

If you have any questions or require further information about this formulation, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide support and guidance to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients and prescribers.

Levothyroxine Sodium combined with Liothyronine in oral capsule form is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypothyroidism, myxedema coma, and occasionally as an adjunct to surgery and radioiodine therapy in the management of thyrotropin-dependent well-differentiated thyroid cancer. This combination therapy aims to provide both synthetic forms of thyroid hormones: T4 (Levothyroxine) and T3 (Liothyronine), favouring cases where more direct T3 supplementation is beneficial or deemed necessary by the healthcare provider.

While the primary indication for Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine capsules is to replace or supplement thyroid hormones in patients with thyroid dysfunction, there may be instances where this formulation is used off-label. Some clinicians use this combination therapy to address conditions such as persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism in patients who have inadequate response to Levothyroxine alone, despite normalized thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. It is important to note that such uses are not universally accepted and generally require close monitoring and individualization of treatment by experienced healthcare professionals.

Occasionally, physicians explore this combination therapy as a part of a weight loss regimen for individuals with obesity; however, this use is controversial and not routinely recommended, due to potential health risks and a lack of robust clinical evidence supporting its efficacy in patients without thyroid dysfunction. It is crucial to underline that the safety and efficacy of using Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine for weight loss in euthyroid (normal thyroid function) patients have not been established, and therefore, such use is not advised.

Moreover, it is essential to remember that the administration of this oral capsule formulation requires careful dosage and monitoring, especially for elderly patients and those with cardiovascular conditions, where treatment must be initiated at lower doses to prevent potential adverse effects. The precise dosing enabled by the solid dosage capsule form of this medication can aid in achieving tailored therapy under the supervision of healthcare providers.

In any case where there is a consideration for an alternate use of the Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine capsules, it is imperative that such a decision should be made by a healthcare professional with a thorough understanding of the patient's medical history and current health status. As a team of compounding pharmacists, we recommend reaching out to us if there are any questions or additional information needed regarding this formulation or its potential uses. Our aim is to support both patients and prescribers to ensure safe and effective medication use.