Genesis T3+T4 100 tabs (30 + 120 mcg/tab)

Liothyronine – Cytomel

Thyroid hormones, crucial for our body’s metabolism, are generally produced naturally, but many pharmaceutical companies offer synthetic alternatives. The two primary thyroid hormones are T4, or levothyroxine, and T3, known as liothyronine, both stored and manufactured in the thyroid gland.

Thyroid hormones can be sourced either from animal glands (bovine or ovine) or created synthetically, with stringent regulations governing iodine content in the USA.

Cytomel (liothyronine sodium) is available as both tablets and naturally occurring salts, with T3 being significantly more potent than T4.

Pharmacology

While the precise mechanism of thyroid hormones remains elusive, they instigate numerous biochemical changes vital for energy production. By increasing the utilization of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, they significantly augment oxygen consumption and metabolic rates, affecting nearly every organ in the body, including the brain. Observing patients with thyroid hormone deficiencies underscores its crucial role.

Dosage

Thyroid hormone is readily absorbed, exhibiting rapid effects usually within hours, while peak action might take several days. It typically persists in the body for days due to its binding to albumin in the bloodstream, protecting it from liver breakdown.

• Hypothyroidism replacement therapy
• Post-thyroidectomy recovery
• Management of goiters and thyroid nodules
• Diagnostic use in hyperthyroidism suppression tests
• Alternative for patients allergic to pork or beef thyroid

Body Builders and Weight Loss

For years, athletes, both amateur and professional, have misused thyroid hormones to accelerate weight loss due to its fat-burning properties. Cytomel is prevalent across various sports disciplines, typically taken orally for 4-6 weeks before an event to enhance performance. While some athletes report weight loss and increased energy, the context is often complicated by concurrent usage of other supplements and hormones.

Online vendors suggest starting with 25 mcg daily, gradually increasing by 5-10 mcg. The maximum tolerated dose is approximately 100 mcg daily, with anecdotal evidence indicating weight loss can take 6-12 weeks. Users should taper off Cytomel to avert inducing thyroid insufficiency upon cessation.

Consult with a physician for safety, particularly when considering off-label use for weight loss.

Signs and Symptoms

Excessive thyroid hormone may lead to a variety of side effects including:

• Headaches
• Mood swings such as irritability and anxiety
• Sweating
• Heart rhythm irregularities
• Palpitations
• Chest pain
• Diarrhea
• Menstrual changes
• Worsening heart failure
• Shock

Severe overdose may mimic thyroid storm, with chronic overuse presenting hyperthyroid symptoms.

Contraindications

Thyroid hormone use is contraindicated in patients with untreated adrenal insufficiency, thyrotoxicosis, or hypersensitivity to any component. True allergy to liothyronine is rarely reported.

Levels

Thyroid hormone levels can be easily monitored, with sporting bodies routinely screening athletes for its presence.

Drug Interactions

Liothyronine may interact with:

• oral anticoagulants
• insulin or oral hypoglycemics
• cholestyramine
• estrogen and oral contraceptives
• tricyclic antidepressants
• digitalis

Physicians must ensure thyroid hormone dosages remain within safe limits, with regular monitoring advised for all patients.

Treatment of Overdosage

In cases of suspected overdose, hospitalization is required, with the hormone temporarily discontinued and the patient closely observed. Prolonged cessation (4-8 weeks) may be necessary for recovery. No specific antidote exists, necessitating supportive care without inducing vomiting. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be warranted.

Dosage

Liothyronine tablets are administered daily, with dosages tailored to hypothyroidism severity. Initiate treatment at the lowest effective dose, beginning with 5 mcg/day and adjusting incrementally every 2-3 weeks. Sudden high doses can exacerbate existing heart issues, with most patients stabilizing on 50-75 mcg daily. Intravenous formulations are available for critical cases, such as myxedema coma, a severe manifestation of hypothyroidism predominantly affecting elderly women.

Liothyronine can be acquired in 5, 25, and 50 mcg tablets, requiring a physician’s prescription in the USA.

T4 – liothyronine sodium

This synthetic thyroid hormone, commonly referred to as levothyroxine, is primarily utilized for treating hypothyroidism, resembling the T4 hormones generated by the thyroid. T4 positively influences the central nervous system, boosts fat metabolism, and supports overall health.

Dosage

100 – 300 mcg per day

Effects

Employing T4 enables athletes to enhance physical performance and effectively manage weight while minimizing hunger pangs.

Side-Effects

Common side effects associated with T4 include insomnia, tremors, anxiety, irregular heartbeats, and suppression of natural thyroid hormone production.

Protection

To mitigate side effects, incorporate beta-blockers and ketotifen into your regimen. It is advisable to use T4 earlier in the day to avoid sleep disturbances.

Stacking

Exercise caution when stacking T4 with other medications that influence heart rate and blood pressure.