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Levothyroxine Sodium 9.5 mcg/Liothyronine 9 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules

Description: Levothyroxine Sodium 9.5 mcg/Liothyronine 9 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are a specialized formulation designed to manage thyroid hormone deficiencies. Each capsule contains a precise combination of Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine, two synthetic forms of thyroid hormones, in a slow-release matrix utilizing Methocel E4M. This controlled-release polymer ensures a gradual and sustained release of the hormones, mimicking the body's natural secretion rhythms. The slow-release mechanism enhances patient adherence by reducing the need for multiple daily doses and minimizes the potential for fluctuations in hormone levels, which can be detrimental to patient well-being.

This formulation is specifically used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland that does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. It is also employed in the management of other related thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and can be used in the suppression of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) for patients with euthyroid goiters or in the treatment of thyroid cancer to suppress TSH levels post-thyroidectomy. By providing a steady release of thyroid hormones, these capsules aid in maintaining consistent hormone levels, thereby supporting normal metabolic function and overall health in patients with these disease states.

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Slow Release Capsules
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Formula Information

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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 crucial for maintaining the body's metabolism, heart, and digestive functions, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance. In our specially formulated Levothyroxine Sodium 9.5 mcg/Liothyronine 9 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules, we utilize Methocel E4M, a hydrophilic methylcellulose polymer, to create a controlled-release matrix. This matrix encapsulates the active ingredients, allowing for a gradual release into the bloodstream, which mimics the body's natural hormone release patterns more closely than immediate-release formulations.

The use of Methocel E4M in our formulation provides several therapeutic benefits. It helps maintain steady hormone levels throughout the day, potentially reducing the peaks and troughs associated with multiple daily dosing. This can lead to improved symptom control and a reduction in side effects, which are sometimes experienced with immediate-release hormone replacement therapies. Additionally, the slow-release mechanism enhances patient compliance by simplifying the dosing regimen to potentially once daily, as opposed to multiple doses that would be required with immediate-release formulations. This is particularly beneficial for patients with hypothyroidism, who often require lifelong treatment.

Our formulation is designed to be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider and is tailored for patients who may not have achieved optimal results with conventional thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It is important for prescribers to monitor thyroid function tests regularly to adjust the dose to the individual needs of the patient. For patients, it is crucial to take the medication consistently and at the same time each day to maintain stable thyroid hormone levels. As with any medication, there may be potential interactions with other drugs, and patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking.

If you have any questions or require further information about our Levothyroxine Sodium 9.5 mcg/Liothyronine 9 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is dedicated to providing personalized care and is ready to assist with any inquiries regarding this formulation or other compounding needs.

Drug Interactions

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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. The slow-release formulation with Methocel E4M ensures a steady release of these hormones into the bloodstream, mimicking the natural secretion of the thyroid gland.

When considering drug interactions, it is important to note that thyroid hormones may interact with a variety of medications. Antacids, calcium carbonate, and iron supplements can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine and liothyronine from the gastrointestinal tract. Patients should be advised to take these supplements at least 4 hours before or after taking their thyroid medication. Cholestyramine, colestipol, and orlistat can also decrease thyroid hormone absorption and may require dose adjustments.

Medications such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, barbiturates, and rifampin can increase the hepatic metabolism of thyroid hormones, potentially necessitating an increase in the dose of levothyroxine and liothyronine. Conversely, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and beta-blockers may decrease the metabolism of thyroid hormones and increase their serum levels.

Thyroid hormones can also affect the action of oral anticoagulants, such as warfarin, by increasing the catabolism of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. This interaction may lead to an increased risk of bleeding, and patients on both thyroid hormones and anticoagulants should have their clotting status closely monitored. Additionally, the use of sympathomimetic agents in patients taking thyroid hormones can potentiate the effects of sympathomimetics, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects.

Diabetic patients should be aware that thyroid hormones may increase blood glucose levels, and adjustments to antidiabetic medication dosages may be necessary. Furthermore, medications such as amiodarone, lithium, and iodine-containing compounds can affect thyroid function and may alter the requirements for thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

It is also important to monitor for signs of therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects when patients are taking other medications that may affect thyroid hormone levels or their action, such as glucocorticoids, beta-blockers, and amiodarone. Regular monitoring of thyroid function tests is recommended to ensure appropriate dosing.

Patients should be counseled to inform their healthcare providers of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products they are taking to avoid potential drug interactions. Prescribers should review the patient's medication profile for potential interactions with levothyroxine and liothyronine and adjust therapy as needed. If you have any questions or require further information regarding this formulation and its interactions, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy.

How Does it Work

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The Levothyroxine Sodium 9.5 mcg/Liothyronine 9 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are a specialized formulation designed to treat thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine sodium is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), while liothyronine is the synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3), both of which are hormones produced by the thyroid gland. These hormones are crucial for maintaining the body's metabolism, heart, and digestive functions, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance. By supplementing the body's deficiency in these hormones, the formulation helps to normalize the metabolic processes that are disrupted in hypothyroidism.

The capsules are formulated with Methocel E4M, which is a type of hydrophilic polymer known as hypromellose (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose). This polymer swells and forms a gel when it comes into contact with gastric fluids. The gel matrix creates a barrier through which the active ingredients, levothyroxine and liothyronine, are slowly released. The controlled-release mechanism ensures a more consistent delivery of the hormones into the bloodstream over an extended period, which mimics the body's natural release of thyroid hormones. This slow release reduces fluctuations in hormone levels, thereby minimizing potential side effects and improving the overall efficacy of the treatment.

For patients, this means that the slow-release capsules can help manage their thyroid hormone levels with a single daily dose, rather than multiple doses throughout the day, which can be inconvenient and lead to poor adherence to the treatment regimen. For prescribers, the formulation offers a more consistent and controlled way to manage their patients' thyroid hormone levels, potentially reducing the risk of over- or under-treatment associated with immediate-release formulations.

It is important to note that the dosing of thyroid hormones is highly individualized and should be adjusted based on regular monitoring of thyroid function tests. The slow-release formulation may also have different absorption characteristics compared to immediate-release forms, and patients transitioning to or from this formulation should be monitored closely for changes in their thyroid hormone levels and clinical response.

If you have any questions about this formulation or how it can be integrated into a treatment plan for thyroid disorders, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide the necessary support and guidance to ensure optimal patient care.

Other Uses

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Levothyroxine Sodium and Liothyronine are synthetic forms of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), respectively. They are most commonly used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. The specific slow release formulation you have described, combining 9.5 mcg of Levothyroxine and 9 mcg of Liothyronine within Methocel E4M, aims to mimic the natural diurnal rhythm of thyroid hormone release and maintain steady hormone levels. This can help minimize fluctuations in patient's symptoms and serum levels that might be seen with immediate-release formulations, particularly in those with sensitivities to hormonal variations.

While the primary indication for this formulation is the treatment of hypothyroidism, there may be situations where it is used in the management of other thyroid-related conditions. For instance, it may be considered in the treatment of myxedema coma, an emergency condition of severe hypothyroidism, albeit at much higher doses and under close clinical supervision. Additionally, in select cases, such as when patients have undergone thyroidectomy due to cancer or hyperthyroidism, the combined T4 and T3 therapy might be used to maintain euthyroid states or suppress tumor recurrence. Always, these uses would be off-label and should be initiated by specialists in endocrinology with careful consideration of the risks and benefits in the individual patient's context.

Another potential, yet less common, use for this formulation could be in the treatment of certain forms of thyroid hormone resistance. This is a genetic disorder where there is reduced tissue responsiveness to thyroid hormone. A controlled-release formulation might help achieve a consistent serum level, which could potentially ameliorate symptoms, although this is not a standard treatment and requires a high level of specialist input.

It's worth noting that any other uses of this formulation would only be considered after a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider who can weigh the risks and benefits in a given patient's scenario. Such off-label applications should be approached cautiously, with close monitoring for effectiveness and safety. Our team at Bayview Pharmacy is equipped to provide tailor-made formulations that can cater to unique therapeutic needs, and we work hand in hand with prescribers to optimize treatment outcomes.

For patients and prescribers wanting to explore the use of this formulation for indications beyond established ones, our knowledgeable team at Bayview Pharmacy is available to discuss potential options and provide guidance. Custom compounding offers the ability to adjust dosages, combine medications and utilize special release mechanisms like the Methocel E4M, ensuring that treatments are as personalized and effective as possible. If you have any questions or need further information about this formulation and its potential uses, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules?

Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules is a compounded medication that contains a combination of thyroid hormones (Levothyroxine and Liothyronine) in a specific ratio designed to treat conditions like hypothyroidism. The capsules are formulated with Methocel E4M, a controlled-release polymer, which ensures a gradual release of the hormones over an extended period.

How do the MEM4 Slow Release Capsules work?

The MEM4 Slow Release Capsules work by utilizing Methocel E4M, a hydrophilic polymer that forms a gel matrix when it comes into contact with gastric fluid. This matrix provides a controlled release of the active ingredients, Levothyroxine and Liothyronine, into the bloodstream slowly, which helps maintain steady hormone levels in the body.

What are the benefits of taking the slow-release form of Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine?

The slow-release form of Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine offers several benefits, including sustained therapeutic effects, reduced fluctuations in hormone levels, fewer dosing frequencies, and potentially improved patient compliance. These factors may lead to better control of hypothyroidism symptoms and enhanced overall treatment outcomes.

Can the MEM4 Slow Release Capsules improve patient compliance?

Yes, the MEM4 Slow Release Capsules can improve patient compliance because the slow-release formulation reduces the need for multiple doses throughout the day. This simplifies the medication regimen for patients, making it easier to adhere to their prescribed treatment plan.

Are the MEM4 Slow Release Capsules suitable for everyone with hypothyroidism?

While the MEM4 Slow Release Capsules can be beneficial for many patients with hypothyroidism, they are not suitable for everyone. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine if this formulation is appropriate for an individual's specific medical condition and needs.

How should MEM4 Slow Release Capsules be stored?

MEM4 Slow Release Capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children and pets.

Can MEM4 Slow Release Capsules be split or crushed?

No, MEM4 Slow Release Capsules should not be split, crushed, or chewed, as doing so would interfere with the controlled-release mechanism and could lead to the rapid release of the medication, potentially causing undesirable effects or decreased effectiveness.

How is the dose of MEM4 Slow Release Capsules determined?

The dose of MEM4 Slow Release Capsules is determined by a healthcare provider based on a patient's individual medical condition, response to therapy, and laboratory results. The dosing regimen may require adjustments over time to achieve the optimal therapeutic effect.

Are there any potential side effects of taking MEM4 Slow Release Capsules?

Like all medications, MEM4 Slow Release Capsules may cause side effects. Common side effects may include changes in appetite, weight changes, or temporary hair loss. More serious side effects may include chest pain, increased heart rate, or signs of allergic reaction. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider for a complete list of potential side effects.

Can I take other medications with the MEM4 Slow Release Capsules?

It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider all medications you are currently taking, as certain drugs can interact with Levothyroxine Sodium/Liothyronine. Your provider may need to adjust dosages or suggest alternative treatments to avoid interactions.

When will I notice improvements in my symptoms after starting MEM4 Slow Release Capsules?

Improvements in symptoms may vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others may take longer. Consistent use as prescribed by a healthcare provider is important for the medication to reach its full effectiveness. It's important to closely monitor your symptoms and follow up with your healthcare provider regularly.

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Formulas and/or material listed are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Every patient is unique, and formulas should be adjusted to meet their individual needs.

No compounded medications are reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.