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Formulas

Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules

Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are meticulously crafted to provide a consistent and prolonged release of liothyronine, the active ingredient. These capsules are embedded with Methocel E4M, a sophisticated controlled-release polymer, which ensures that the medication is gradually dispensed into the bloodstream over an extended duration. This advanced formulation is specifically designed to maintain steady therapeutic levels, thereby minimizing the need for frequent dosing and enhancing patient adherence to the treatment regimen.

This particular dosage form is primarily indicated for the management of hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland which fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones. By delivering liothyronine in a controlled manner, these capsules help in restoring the normal metabolic rate and alleviating the symptoms associated with this disease state. Additionally, the formulation may be employed in the treatment of specific thyroid disorders such as myxedema coma, where a slow and steady hormone replacement is crucial.

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Liothyronine Sodium
Slow Release Capsules
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Formula Information

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Liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3), a thyroid hormone that is used to treat various conditions such as hypothyroidism, myxedema coma, and certain types of depression. It is particularly beneficial for patients who do not respond well to levothyroxine (T4) alone. Liothyronine works by replenishing the levels of thyroid hormone in the body, thereby normalizing the body's metabolism, energy production, and growth and development processes.

The Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are a specialized formulation designed to provide a controlled release of liothyronine over an extended period. This is achieved through the use of Methocel E4M, a hydrophilic methylcellulose polymer that forms a gel matrix when it comes into contact with gastrointestinal fluids. This matrix creates a barrier through which the liothyronine must diffuse, thus slowing its release into the bloodstream. The slow release mechanism allows for a more consistent serum concentration of the hormone, which can help in reducing the fluctuations in energy and mood that patients might experience with immediate-release formulations.

By using this controlled-release formulation, patients may benefit from a reduced dosing frequency, which can improve adherence to the medication regimen. This is particularly important for chronic conditions like hypothyroidism, where long-term treatment is necessary. Additionally, the more stable blood levels of T3 can lead to better overall management of the condition, with fewer side effects and potentially improved clinical outcomes.

For prescribers, it is important to note that the dosing of Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules may differ from that of immediate-release liothyronine due to the altered pharmacokinetics provided by the Methocel E4M matrix. Close monitoring of thyroid function tests is recommended to ensure that the patient achieves and maintains an optimal therapeutic response. Adjustments to the dosage may be necessary based on the patient's clinical response and laboratory results.

Patients should be counseled on the importance of taking this medication as directed and not to crush or chew the capsules, as this would disrupt the controlled-release mechanism. They should also be made aware of potential side effects, such as palpitations, weight loss, and insomnia, which should be reported to their healthcare provider.

If you have any questions or require further information about the Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is committed to providing support and guidance to both patients and prescribers to ensure the safe and effective use of this specialized medication.

Drug Interactions

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Liothyronine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3) and is used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It is also used in the treatment of myxedema coma and sometimes in the management of thyroid cancer. The slow-release formulation of liothyronine in Methocel E4M is designed to maintain a steady level of the hormone in the body, which is crucial for patients requiring a consistent therapeutic effect to manage their condition.

When considering the use of liothyronine 30 mcg slow-release capsules, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy of the medication or the patient's overall health. Liothyronine should be used with caution in conjunction with medications that affect thyroid hormone levels or the body's response to thyroid hormones. For example, antithyroid agents (such as methimazole or propylthiouracil) used to treat hyperthyroidism can reduce the effectiveness of liothyronine. Conversely, liothyronine may enhance the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin, necessitating closer monitoring of coagulation parameters and possible dose adjustments.

Medications that can alter the absorption or metabolism of liothyronine include cholestyramine, colestipol, aluminum-containing antacids, and proton pump inhibitors, which may bind the hormone in the gastrointestinal tract and reduce its bioavailability. Iron and calcium supplements can also interfere with liothyronine absorption and should be taken several hours apart from the thyroid medication. Additionally, certain drugs such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and rifampin can increase the clearance of liothyronine, potentially leading to a decrease in its therapeutic effects.

Patients with diabetes should be aware that liothyronine may increase blood glucose levels, and adjustments to antidiabetic medication dosages may be necessary. Similarly, those on sympathomimetic agents or beta-blockers may require dose adjustments, as liothyronine can enhance the effects of sympathomimetics and reduce the efficacy of beta-adrenergic blocking agents. It is also important to monitor patients on cardiac glycosides, as thyroid hormones can alter the sensitivity of the heart to these medications.

It is essential for patients to inform their healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products they are taking to avoid potential interactions. Prescribers should review the patient's medication history and monitor for any changes in response to liothyronine therapy. Adjustments to dosing or the management of concomitant medications may be necessary to ensure the safe and effective use of liothyronine slow-release capsules.

If you have any questions or require further information regarding the drug interactions associated with liothyronine 30 mcg slow-release capsules, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is committed to providing comprehensive support to both patients and prescribers to optimize treatment outcomes.

How Does it Work

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Liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3), a thyroid hormone that is naturally produced by the thyroid gland. This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolic rate, heart and digestive functions, muscle control, brain development, and maintenance of bones. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough T3, it can lead to a condition known as hypothyroidism, which is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression. Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules are designed to treat hypothyroidism by providing the body with a steady supply of T3 to help restore normal thyroid hormone levels.

The slow-release mechanism of these capsules is achieved through the use of Methocel E4M, which is a type of hydrophilic polymer known as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). Methocel E4M swells and forms a gel when it comes into contact with gastric fluids after the capsule is ingested. This gel matrix creates a barrier that controls the rate at which the liothyronine is released from the capsule and absorbed into the bloodstream. The controlled-release property of Methocel E4M ensures that the liothyronine is delivered over an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours, depending on the individual's gastrointestinal transit time and the specific formulation of the capsule.

By providing a steady and prolonged release of liothyronine, these slow-release capsules help maintain a more consistent level of thyroid hormone in the body, which can lead to better symptom control and a reduction in the fluctuations that might be experienced with immediate-release formulations. This can also mean that patients may only need to take their medication once a day, which can significantly improve adherence to the treatment regimen. Additionally, the slow-release formulation may reduce the risk of side effects that can occur with higher peak concentrations of the hormone, which is sometimes seen with immediate-release products.

It is important for prescribers to note that the dosing of liothyronine in a slow-release formulation may differ from that of an immediate-release form due to the differences in absorption and bioavailability. Therefore, it is essential to monitor thyroid function tests and adjust the dose accordingly to achieve and maintain the desired therapeutic effect. Patients should be advised not to crush or chew the capsules, as this would disrupt the controlled-release mechanism and potentially lead to a rapid release of the medication, altering its effectiveness and increasing the risk of side effects.

For patients and prescribers who are considering using Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsules, or for those who require additional information about this formulation, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is available to answer any questions and provide further assistance to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

Other Uses

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Liothyronine, commonly known as the active form of thyroid hormone T3, is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Patients who are non-responsive or intolerant to standard levothyroxine therapy (T4) may particularly benefit from a liothyronine formulation. In addition to its conventional uses, there may be instances where liothyronine is used off-label by healthcare providers to manage other related clinical situations. For example, some studies suggest that liothyronine may be used in the setting of thyroid cancer to prepare patients for radioactive iodine treatment by ensuring high levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), aiding in the effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, liothyronine has been explored for use in the treatment of severe and acute hypothyroid states such as myxedema coma, where rapid thyroid hormone replacement is necessary.

Liothyronine's utility may also extend to certain cases of depression, where it can be used as an adjunct treatment, particularly in patients with depression who have not responded adequately to antidepressants alone. The rationale is that liothyronine may enhance the effects of the antidepressants and thus provide relief in otherwise treatment-resistant cases. However, such off-label applications must be approached cautiously and should be managed by an endocrinologist or psychiatrist with extensive experience in hormonal therapies.

The formulation of liothyronine in slow-release capsules using Methocel E4M provides a steady release of the hormone and may be beneficial where stable serum levels are required, thus potentially reducing fluctuations in mood or function for those with thyroid-related mood disorders. It also offers a dosing convenience which might lead to better patient adherence and overall satisfaction with their treatment regimen. As always, prescribers and patients should remain aware of the potential side effects and monitor thyroid function tests regularly to optimize the dose accordingly.

It is worth mentioning that all additional uses of liothyronine should be backed by clinical data and should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider knowledgeable in its pharmacokinetics and therapeutics. If you have any questions or require further information regarding the applications of our liothyronine 30 mcg slow-release oral capsules, or if you would like support in determining whether this formulation could be appropriate for a specific patient or clinical situation, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is committed to providing comprehensive information and assistance to ensure the safe and effective use of the medications we formulate.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsule?

Liothyronine 30 mcg Slow Release (MEM4) Oral Capsule is a thyroid hormone medication formulated with Methocel E4M (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), which is a type of controlled-release polymer. This medication is designed to treat hypothyroidism by providing a gradual release of liothyronine over an extended period, which ensures sustained therapeutic effects and helps to maintain consistent hormone levels in the body.

How does the controlled release mechanism of Liothyronine Slow Release capsules work?

The controlled release mechanism is facilitated by Methocel E4M, which forms a gel-like matrix when the capsule comes in contact with gastrointestinal fluids. This matrix gradually releases the encapsulated liothyronine, ensuring a steady absorption rate and prolonged therapeutic effect, therefore reducing the need for multiple daily dosing.

What are the benefits of using Liothyronine Slow Release capsules?

The primary benefits of using Liothyronine Slow Release capsules include improved patient compliance due to less frequent dosing, a reduced risk of side effects associated with peak levels of hormones, and a more stable blood concentration of the medication over time, which can contribute to better management of hypothyroidism symptoms.

Is there a difference in efficacy between Liothyronine Slow Release capsules and immediate-release formulations?

Liothyronine Slow Release capsules are designed to be equally effective as immediate-release formulations in terms of the overall delivered dose. However, the slow release formulation provides a steadier release of the hormone, which can help maintain a more consistent hormone level in the body and potentially lead to better symptom control and fewer side effects.

Can I take Liothyronine Slow Release capsules with food?

It is usually recommended to take liothyronine on an empty stomach for better absorption. However, you should follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the intake of this medication with or without food.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Liothyronine Slow Release capsules?

If you miss a dose of Liothyronine Slow Release capsules, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one. Always consult your healthcare provider if you are unsure about how to handle a missed dose.

Are there any side effects associated with Liothyronine Slow Release capsules?

Like all medications, Liothyronine Slow Release capsules may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Possible side effects include, but are not limited to, heart palpitations, nervousness, weight loss, and changes in appetite. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

How should I store Liothyronine Slow Release capsules?

Liothyronine Slow Release capsules should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom or near a sink, and make sure the cap on the bottle is tightly closed to protect the capsules from moisture.

Can Liothyronine Slow Release capsules be used during pregnancy?

Thyroid hormones are crucial during pregnancy, and it is important to maintain appropriate levels. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should consult your healthcare provider to discuss the benefits and risks of using Liothyronine Slow Release capsules during pregnancy.

Are there any interactions between Liothyronine Slow Release capsules and other medications?

There may be interactions between Liothyronine Slow Release capsules and other medications, supplements, or herbal products you may be taking. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

Can Liothyronine Slow Release capsules be split or crushed?

Liothyronine Slow Release capsules should not be split, crushed, or chewed, as this would interfere with the controlled-release mechanism designed to gradually release the medication over time. Always take the capsules whole with water as instructed by your healthcare provider.

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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.