Pregnenolone vs Liothyronine (T3)
A side-by-side research comparison of Pregnenolone and Liothyronine (T3) across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Pregnenolone | Liothyronine (T3) |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Pregnenolone (Mother Hormone) | Liothyronine Sodium (Cytomel) |
| Category | Hormone Replacement | Hormone Replacement |
| Status | OTC supplement / Prescribed | Prescription medication |
| Mechanism | Acts as the primary substrate for steroidogenesis (cortisol, DHEA, progesterone, testosterone, estrogen). Also functions as a neurosteroid, enhancing memory and NMDA receptor activity. | Binds nuclear thyroid receptors to regulate gene transcription for basal metabolic rate, thermogenesis, protein synthesis, and carbohydrate/fat metabolism in virtually every tissue. |
| Molecular weight | 316.48 Da | 650.97 Da |
| Half-life | ~1-3 hours (oral) | ~2.5 days |
| Bioavailability | ~60% oral | ~95% oral |
| Typical dose | 50-100 mg | 5-25 mcg |
| Frequency | Daily (morning) | Daily (split AM/PM) |
| Route | Oral capsule or sublingual | Oral tablet or sustained-release capsule |
Pregnenolone reported benefits
- Hormone precursor balance
- Memory enhancement
- Mood improvement
- Joint support
- Myelin sheath repair
- Stress resilience
Liothyronine (T3) reported benefits
- Metabolic rate increase
- Weight loss support
- Improved energy
- Better mood
- Reduced brain fog
- Enhanced fat oxidation
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.