Liotrix

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Liotrix is a synthetic thyroid hormone, a combination of levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3), used to treat hypothyroidism and goiter. It is marketed under the brand name Thyrolar.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "liotrix" is derived from the combination of the names of the two hormones it contains: liothyronine and levothyroxine.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Liotrix is a synthetic thyroid hormone that works by supplementing or replacing the thyroid hormones naturally produced in the body. It contains both T4 (levothyroxine) and T3 (liothyronine) in a 4:1 ratio, which is thought to mimic the ratio of these hormones as produced by the human thyroid gland.

Medical uses[edit | edit source]

Liotrix is used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It is also used to treat or prevent goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), which can be caused by hormone imbalances, radiation treatment, surgery, or cancer.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of liotrix include headache, nervousness, trouble sleeping, and increased appetite. More serious side effects can include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and swelling of the hands or feet.

Related terms[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Liotrix Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD