LIOTHYRONINE (CYTOMEL)

CLASS: Thyroid hormone, synthetic T3 ACTION: Controls protein synthesis; increases metabolic rates, cardiac output, renal blood flow, O2 consumption, body temp, blood volume, growth, development at cellular level: exact mechanism unknown USES/INDICATIONS: Hypothroidism, myxedema coma, thyroid hormone replacement, nontoxic, goiter, T3 suppression test, congenital hypothyroidism SIDE EFFECTS/ADVERSE REACTIONS: Insomnia, tremors, headache, thyroid storm, tachycardia, palpitations, angina, dysrhythmias, HTN, cardiac arrest, Nausea, diarrhea, increased/decreased appetite, cramps, menstrual irregularities, weight loss, sweating, heat intolerance, fever, alopecia NURSING CONSIDERATIONS: y y y y y y y Determine if pt is taking anticoagulants, antidiabetic agents Take B/P, pulse before each dose, monitor I&O ratio and weight daily Monitor ht/wt, psychomotor development and growth rate if given to a child Monitor T3, T4, TSH, FTIs which are decreased Monitor protime Assess for increased nervousness, excitability, irritability which may indicate too high of a dose Assess cardiac status, baseline ECG

PATIENT/FAMILY EDUCATION y y y y y Teach that med is not a cure but a treatment for symptoms and treatment is long term Advise not switch brands unless MD consulted first Caution that product is not to be used to lose weight Avoid OTC meds that contain iodine Avoid Iodine rich foods, such a s salt, soybeans, tofu, turnips, high iodine seafood, some breads