Final answer:
Desiccated thyroid (ArmourThyroid) and Liothyronine (Cytomel) are used to supplement low thyroid hormone levels, and their ADRs can mirror symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including increased heart rate, weight loss, and nervousness. Overmedication can result in serious side effects, so careful monitoring is needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The adverse drug reactions (ADRs) for desiccated thyroid (ArmourThyroid) and liothyronine (Cytomel) are associated with their actions on the thyroid hormone levels in the body. Desiccated thyroid is a natural product made from animal thyroid glands and contains both thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), aiming to supplement low levels of thyroid hormone. Liothyronine is a synthetic form of the T3 thyroid hormone. Both medications increase thyroid hormone levels, which can lead to hyperthyroid-like symptoms if the dose is too high or not well adjusted.
ADRs for Desiccated Thyroid (ArmourThyroid) include increased heart rate, weight loss, tremors, headaches, allergic reactions, and potential heart issues if overdosed or in patients with pre-existing heart conditions. Symptoms may also mirror those of hyperthyroidism such as sweating, heat intolerance, and insomnia.
ADRs for Liothyronine (Cytomel) can also include rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, difficulty breathing, nervousness, irritability, sleeplessness, and changes in appetite or weight. Overmedication with Liothyronine can result in hyperthyroid symptoms or induce a thyroid crisis in susceptible individuals.
In treating conditions like hypothyroidism, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, or having post-thyroidectomy replacement therapy, it is crucial to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust the medication dosage to avoid ADRs associated with excess thyroid hormones.