T3 - Cytomel LA
Liothyronine Sodium
Chemical Name: L-isomer of Triiodothyronine (T3)
Uses:Liothyronine sodium is a thyroid hormone used primarily for the treatment of hypothyroidism and myxedema coma. Due to its ability to boost metabolism and promote the breakdown of body fat, it is also popular among bodybuilders and athletes.

Overview and Pharmacokinetics
In South Africa, two common products used are:
Eltroxin (Thyroxine Sodium or T4)
Tertroxin (Liothyronine Sodium or T3)

Eltroxin (T4):
Works slowly with a plasma half-life of approximately 11 days.
Takes about 4 weeks to reach steady plasma levels.
Has a strong suppressive effect on natural thyroid function, which can last 4-6 weeks after discontinuation.
Bioavailability: Less than 80%.

Tertroxin (T3):
Has a short half-life of about 12 hours.
Acts almost immediately.
Does not cause prolonged suppression of natural thyroid function.
Absorption: Over 95% of the dose is absorbed.

Side Effects
Common side effects include:
Headaches
Irritability
Nervousness
Sweating
Irregular heartbeat
Increased bowel movements
Menstrual abnormalities

Overdose Risks:  
May cause the heart rate to rise above 150 beats per minute.
Tertroxin: The body detoxifies the drug within about one day, and symptoms resolve quickly.
Eltroxin: Overdose symptoms may last weeks, with risks of heart failure or permanent heart damage.

Dosing Guidelines
Initial Dose:Start at 20 mcg, increasing by 10 mcg every 3-4 days based on individual response.
Typical Range:20 to 100 mcg per day, tailored to the patient's needs.
Purpose of Titration:Gradually increasing the dose allows the body to adapt to higher thyroid hormone levels, reducing side effects.

Cycle Duration:Usually lasts no more than 6 weeks.

Discontinuation:Should not be stopped abruptly; taper off slowly in the same manner as initiation.