Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Cytomel (Liothyronine).
Bone density: Long term use of thyroid mediations can cause bones to lose thickness. If you have an increased risk for Osteoporosis (bone thinning) or are taking medications that reduce bone thickness (e.g., Prednisone or antiseizure medications), before you start taking Cytomel (Liothyronine), discuss with your doctor how Cytomel (Liothyronine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Cytomel (Liothyronine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Diabetes: Cytomel (Liothyronine) may cause blood sugar to increase and glucose tolerance may change. People with diabetes may find it necessary to monitor their blood sugar more frequently while using Cytomel (Liothyronine).
If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Cytomel (Liothyronine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Cytomel (Liothyronine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Heart disease: Starting Cytomel (Liothyronine) may cause the heart to work harder than it has been used to. This can cause symptoms of Angina or other heart disease to worsen. If you have angina or other heart disease, discuss with your doctor how Cytomel (Liothyronine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Cytomel (Liothyronine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy: Cytomel (Liothyronine) does not cross the placenta, therefore it does not directly affect the development of an unborn baby. During pregnancy, your doctor will probably want to do blood tests to make sure the level of thyroid in the blood stream is appropriate. Cytomel (Liothyronine) is safe to use during pregnancy.
Breast-feeding: Cytomel (Liothyronine) passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is important to continue taking thyroid hormone even when you are breast-feeding. Inform your doctor if you are breast-feeding or intending to breast-feed while taking Cytomel (Liothyronine).
Seniors: Older people may be more sensitive to the effects of Cytomel (Liothyronine) and should be watchful for side effects, particularly those involving the heart.