Doses - LIOTHYRONINE SODIUM

Dogs:

For hypothyroidism:
a) Initially, 4 - 6 micrograms/kg PO q8h. Some dogs may require less frequent dosing.(Nelson 1989b)
b) 4.4 micrograms/kg PO q8h (Mulnix 1985)
c) 4 - 6 micrograms/kg PO tid, or possibly twice a day. (Ferguson 1986)

Cats:

For hypothyroidism:
a) Initially, 4.4 micrograms/kg PO 2-3 times a day. (Feldman and Nelson 1987d)
Monitoring Parameters - Similar to levothyroxine, but T4 levels will remain low. When monitoring T3 levels, draw serum just prior to dosing and again 2-4 hours after administering the drug.
Client Information - Clients should be instructed in the importance of compliance with therapy asprescribed. Also, review the symptoms that can be seen with too much thyroid supplementation (see
Overdosage section in the levothyroxine monograph).
Dosage Forms/Preparations/FDA Approval Status/Withholding Times - Veterinary-Approved Products:
Liothyronine Sodium Tablets (Veterinary) 60 micrograms, 120 micrograms in bottles of 500;
Cytobin® (Pfizer); (Rx) Approved for use in dogs.

Human-Approved Products:

Liothyronine Sodium Tablets 5 micrograms, 25 micrograms, 50 micrograms; Cytomel® (SK-Beecham); Generic; (Rx)
Liothyronine Sodium Injection: 10 mcg/ml in 1 ml vials Tiostat® (SK-Beecham) (Rx)