6.2 Thyroid and antithyroid drugs

GREEN Levothyroxine tablets 25, 50, 100 microgram

BLACK Levothyroxine liquid (all strengths)

RED Liothyronine injection 20 microgram (hospital use only in thyroid emergencies)

Liothyronine tablets: RED Traffic Light for use in:

> Monotherapy treatment in refractory hypothyroidism

> Add-on treatment for refractory hypothyroidism [Not to be used alone or in combination with levothyroxine]

RED Liothyronine tablets [tertroxin]

link to RCP - Diagnosis and management of primary hypothyroidism

BLACK Thyroid extracts [unlicensed liothyronine and thyroid extra products] e.g. Armour Thyroid

RMOC liothyronine guidance

BLACK Liothyronine tablets/capsules

Liothyronine tablets: BLACK Traffic Light for use in:

> Monotherapy for the management of chronic hyperthyroidism [primary and secondary care]

> Liothyronine therapy commenced in the private sector

> Management of resistant depression

Carbimazole is the drug of choice, with propylthioruracil used for patients with sensitivity to carbimazole or in pregnacy.

Warn patients that if a sore throat develops, in the first 6-8 weeks of therapy they should stop treatment and seek medical advice.

GREEN Carbimazole tablets 5mg, 20mg

GREEN Propylthiouracil tablets 50mg

Partial thyroidectomy

Iodine may be given for 10 - 14 days before surgery.

RED Aqueous iodine oral solution 100mL (Lugol’s solution)

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