Replacement of L-T4 suppository in MMI treated rabbits.

L-T4 suppositories containing 50, 100 or 200 micrograms of L-T4 were given to rabbits treated with MMI. The serum T4 gradually increased within 3.5 and 6.5 hours following the use of 100 and 200 micrograms of L-T4 suppositories, respectively, without an acute increase in serum T3. The increase in serum T4 continued up to 48 hours. The area under the curve (AUC) for serum T4 was evidently dose-dependent. It is concluded from these results that the T4 suppository will be useful as a replacement therapy for patients with hypothyroidism.