Liotrix

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

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

Pharmacology

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

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

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

• Thyroid hormone
• Levothyroxine
• Liothyronine
• Hypothyroidism
• Goiter

See also

• Thyroid function tests
• Thyroid disease
• Thyroid hormones

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