liothyronine sodium (cont.)

Cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid) reduce the effects of liothyronine and possibly other thyroid hormones by attaching to the hormones in the intestine and preventing their absorption from the intestine. Therefore, cholestyramine and colestipol should be taken approximately six hours before or after liothyronine or other thyroid hormones so as not to interfere with their absorption.

PREGNANCY: Thyroid hormones do not easily cross the placenta and, therefore, are safe for pregnant women to take.

NURSING MOTHERS:Very small amounts of thyroid hormone may be excreted in breast milk. This is not a serious problem for breast fed infants.

SIDE EFFECTS: Liothyronine therapy generally is well-tolerated. If symptoms occur, they usually occur because there are toxic (too high) levels of thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: chest pain, increased heart rate, cardiac arrest, excessive sweating, heat intolerance, nervousness, headache, tremor, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or fever. Women also may experience irregular menstrual cycles.

Since thyroid hormone affects heart rate and metabolism, the impact of treatment of thyroid hormone on the control of diseases such as atrial fibrillation, diabetes and high cholesterol levels always should be considered.

Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, Pharm.D.
Medical Editor: Jay Marks, M.D.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

Last Editorial Review: 3/12/2002

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