Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid or thyrotoxicosis, triggers when thethyroid glandproduces too much thyroid hormone.
There are three main treatments forhyperthyroidism:
This article explains hyperthyroidism and how it can be treated.
What Medications Are Available for Hyperthyroidism?
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Hyperthyroidism is treated with antithyroid drugs called thionamides.
Thionamides treat an overactive thyroid by blocking your thyroid gland from making new thyroid hormones.
If you have any concerns, hey talk with your healthcare provider.
If your symptoms are severe, just seek medical attention immediately.
How Effective Are Different Treatments for Hyperthyroidism?
Methimazoleis the preferred treatment for almost all people with hyperthyroidism compared to propylthiouracil.
It usually leads to permanent destruction of the thyroid gland, which will cure hyperthyroidism.
A more permanent option for treating hyperthyroidism issurgery(thyroidectomy).
Your healthcare provider may remove all or part of your thyroid gland.
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How Long Do I Need to Take Medication for Hyperthyroidism?
Use with methimazole is generally recommended for 12 to 18 months.
Your healthcare provider will likely consider radioactive iodine treatment or surgery to treat your hyperthyroidism.
How Long Do the Medications Take to Work?
After taking antithyroid drugs, your thyroid may take several weeks to achieve normal function.
Generally, it may take six to 12 weeks to start to see improvements in normal thyroid function.
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid to produce too much thyroid hormones.
Thyroiditis(inflammation of the thyroid) and excess intake of iodine can also lead to hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid storm requires immediate treatment, as it is life-threatening and can develop and worsen quickly.
Nutrition Considerations
If you have hyperthyroidism, you should maintain alow-iodine diet.
Iodine promotes the release of thyroid hormone, so you should keep foods rich in iodine to a minimum.
Radioactive iodine treatment and surgery sometimes destroy or eliminate the thyroid gland.
Mathew P, Kaur J, Rawla P.Hyperthyroidism.
Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; March 19, 2023.
Food and Drug Administration.Methimazole label.
Food and Drug Administration.Propylthiouracil label.
2015;2(3):147-157. doi:10.1002/ams2.104
American Thyroid Association.Low iodine diet.
Michigan Medicine.Low iodine diet guidelines.
