Should Cytomel be Used for Weight Loss?

In the weight loss world, a debate rages between advocates and opponents of a synthetic hormone replacement drug some are using to shed unwanted pounds. The drug, liothyronine sodium, is given to patients suffering from hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid doesn't make enough natural Triiodothyronine (T3). Liothyronine sodium, better known by the brand name Cytomel, can help treat many symptoms, including weight gain. There are those who are willing to take Cytomel if it means possible weight loss.

The natural thyroid hormone T3 has a role in almost every process in the body. For a person with hypothyroidism, the lack of T3 could mean hampered body growth, hair that breaks easily or falls out, impaired or slowed speech, and weight gain. If used, Cytomel can take the place of T3 and begin to address the hormone deficiency problems. It can also speed up the body's metabolism, making it desirable for dieters. Cytomel as a weight-loss agent works in the same way that T3 would. It stimulates adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which holds energy in the body and then releases it to fuel metabolic reactions. When that happens, it raises the metabolism and makes it easier to burn fat. Cytomel benefits people who lack enough thyroid hormones because it restores functionality to their bodies' processes.

Advocates for Cytomel's use as a weight-loss drug are attracted to its ability to quickly process carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Some bodybuilders and dieters look to Cytomel to burn off extra body fat. The extra release of energy may encourage users to exercise. Those who use Cytomel as a diet aid recommend slowly increasing the dosages until reaching a maximum amount, not to be exceeded. They also advise seeing a doctor before beginning Cytomel and being cautious during its usage. Those who oppose it for dietary use do so on the idea that Cytomel, which serves as a replacement hormone for those with a medical deficiency, can be harmful to people with regular hormone production. They warn that taking unneeded drugs can permanently affect the body's natural functions. Because Cytomel works as a thyroid replacement hormone, it works on almost every process in the body, not just the metabolism. The side effects from unnecessary Cytomel use can include nervousness, headaches, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, breathing problems, and chest and abdominal pain. In serious cases, it could cause shock, heart attack, congestive heart failure, or even death. The package insert for Cytomel warns users about using it as a diet aid. It states that, although thyroid hormone drugs have been used to treat obesity, not all doses will cause weight loss. Large doses may bring about serious or even potentially fatal toxic reactions.

Pros
Cytomel can burn body fat, without restricting caloric intake. The stimulated ATP can release enough energy to promote exercise, which aids in weight loss. Some people believe they can safely take Cytomel with no adverse side effects and lose the weight they want, then come down off the dosages.

Cons
Taking Cytomel, a replacement hormone, with a healthy thyroid could actually bring on hypothyroidism, not to mention other harmful side effects. The amount for a safe dosage in a person with the deficiency is dependent on the degree of hypothyroidism and age; those who take it for weight loss may have less accurate means to determine dosages. It is impossible to determine when and which side effects could appear.

Cytomel works well as a replacement hormone for thyroid deficiency, but there is much controversy over its usefulness as a diet drug. While it greatly boosts the metabolism and can be used to assist in weight loss, it also carries numerous health risks that may outweigh the benefits. Those still willing to try Cytomel to lose weight would be well advised to consult a doctor first, and to follow medical advice.