Pfizer, Please Ensure Cytomel is Gluten-Free

• Cytomel is a medication used for hypothyroidism, which is most commonly caused by an autoimmune attack on the thyroid gland, known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
• Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten (the protein found in wheat, rye, and barley).
• Celiac disease is more common in Hashimoto's and is reported to affect anywhere from 1.2% to 15% of patients with Hashimoto’s. (1-3)
• Cytomel contains starch, which may be wheat derived and may contain gluten. (4)
• Even tiny amounts of gluten, such as those found in medications, can produce health challenges in people with celiac disease. 
• Please sign this petition to ask Pfizer, the manufacturer of Cytomel to ensure the medication is gluten-free.

Warmly,

Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP

Registered Pharmacist on behalf of the thyroid community

References:

1.  Hadithi, Muhammed M (03/2007). "Coeliac disease in Dutch patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and vice versa.". World journal of gastroenterology : WJG (1007-9327), 13 (11),  1715.

2.   Farahid, O H OH (01/2014). "Prevalence of coeliac disease among adult patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism in Jordan.".Eastern Mediterranean health journal (1020-3397), 20 (1),  51.

3.   Teixeira, Laila M LM (08/2014). "Screening of celiac disease in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease from Southern Brazil.".Arquivos brasileiros de endocrinologia e metabologia (0004-2730), 58 (6),  625.

4. Pfizer drug information call, May 16th, 2016