Reassessment of combined LT4 and LT3 treatment for hypothyroidism: the prospects for slow-release T3 preparations.

Address correspondence and requests for reprints to: Leonidas H. Duntas, M.D., Endocrine Unit, Evgenidion Hospital, University of Athens, 20 Papadiamantopoulou Str., 11528 Athens, Greece, e-mail: [email protected] Received 16-03-05, Accepted 30-03-05 mainly owing to lesser affinity of the serum binding proteins for T3. At times T3 has been added at various dosages or as a fixed preparation, containing T4 and T3 in various ratios (T4:T3 of 1:5 or 1:10), this regimen however has not been established as the treatment of choice for thyroid failure. This is mostly due to the several side effects of T3, such as tachycardia and nervousness, which may severely affect compliance.