CYTOMEL, 5MCG, TABLET

Common uses

This medication is a thyroid hormone. Typically, it is used as a thyroid hormone supplement. It may also have other uses. It requires several days to take effect.

How to use this medication

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. You should take this medication at approximately the same time each day.

Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand.

This medication may be taken with or without food.

Possible side effects

This product is generally well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. When side effects do occur, they usually disappear on their own, without further treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects, talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Additional information

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

Blood tests must be done regularly while using this medication. A blood sample will indicate whether your treatment is having the desired effect. It will also provide the necessary information for adjusting the dosage to the lowest effective dose, thus decreasing the risk of adverse effects. Be sure to keep all your appointments.

Symptoms that suggest the dosage may be too high include: Increased appetite, dry/brittle/fine hair, diarrhea, weakness, fatigue, insomnia, intolerance to heat, heart palpitations, weight loss, excessive perspiration, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, confusion, tremor, menstrual irregularities.

Symptoms that suggest the dosage may be too low include: Constipation, depression, excessive fatigue, weakness, weight gain, intolerance to cold, brittle nails, cold and dry skin, heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual irregularities, muscle pain, dry/brittle/fine hair, slow speech.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.