Bitiron
Bitiron Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Bitiron is a brand name. Its generic name is Liotrix.
Bitiron Introduction
Bitiron, also known as Thyrolar® or Thyro-Tabs®, is a synthetic thyroid hormone consisting of a combination of the active ingredients levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3). It is manufactured by Acella Pharmaceuticals, and is currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the treatment of hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid.
Uses for Bitiron
Bitiron is indicated for the treatment of hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid, commonly seen in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which antibodies attack and destroy the thyroid gland.
Mechanism of Action
Bitiron works by replacing the levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3) hormones that are normally produced by the thyroid gland. By supplying these hormones, it helps to reduce symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression associated with an underactive thyroid. It also helps regulate the body's metabolism, which supports healthy blood cholesterol levels and cardiac function.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Once Bitiron has been started, it can take up to three to four weeks for it to reach its full effectiveness. During this time, it is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, and to periodically check your blood levels of thyroid hormones to make sure that they are in the target range.
Absorption
Bitiron is quickly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak serum levels within four to five hours of administration.
Route of Elimination
Once absorbed, Bitiron is metabolized in the liver and excreted mainly as metabolites via the kidneys.
Dosage
The recommended daily dosage for Bitiron depends on the person’s individual needs; it may be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the instructions of your physician. Common adult doses range from 25 mcg to 125 mcg per day, taken once per day.
Administration
Bitiron is administered as a tablet, and should be swallowed with a full glass of water.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Bitiron may include: headache, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, anxiety, sweating, and fatigue.
Toxicity
In general, Bitiron is well tolerated but overdose or taking too much can lead to toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity may include: irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, increased heart rate, muscle cramps, nervousness, and sweating.
Precaution
Patients should not take Bitiron without discussing it with their doctor. It is not recommended for patients with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, as well as those with fragile bones or pregnant or lactating women without first consulting their healthcare provider.
Interaction
Bitiron may interact with certain medications like birth control pills, anticoagulants, antidepressants, and antacids. It is important to let your healthcare provider know about any medications or supplements that you are taking.
Disease Interaction
Bitiron may interact with certain disease conditions like hyper or hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, adrenal insufficiency, and liver or kidney disease.
Drug Interaction
Bitiron may interact with certain drugs, such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, rifampin, estrogens, oral contraceptives, isoniazid, and reserpine.
Food Interactions
Foods containing calcium, iron, or soy may interfere with the absorption of Bitiron, leading to reduced efficacy. Therefore, they should be taken a minimum of four to five hours apart.
Pregnancy Use
It is not recommended that Bitiron be used in pregnancy due to the possible effects on the developing fetus.
Lactation Use
Bitiron is not recommended for use while lactating due to the risk of the drug disrupting the infant’s thyroid levels.
Acute Overdose
Signs and symptoms of Bitiron overdose may include chest pain, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, headache, flushing, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
Contraindication
Bitiron is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to any of its components, and in those with severe cardiac disease, thyrotoxicosis, or untreated adrenal insufficiency.
Use Direction
Bitiron should be taken as prescribed by your physician. It should be taken with a full glass of water, at least 30 minutes before a meal. It is important to never take more than the recommended dose, to not stop taking the drug abruptly, and to never take a double dose.
Storage Condition
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F). Protect from light and moisture.
Volume of Distribution
Bitiron has a volume of distribution of 2.5-3.5 L/kg.
Half-life
Bitiron has an average half-life of 6-7 hours.
Clearance
Bitiron is eliminated mainly by hepatic metabolism. Its clearance is approximately 1.6 L/h/kg.
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