The antithyroid drugs are used to inhibit the activities of the thyroid gland in the event of hyperthyroidism.
The drugs that belong to this family include antithyroid sera (now being abandoned) and drugs such as diiodotyrosine reserved almost exclusively to the treatment of patients who will undergo surgery to remove the thyroid. The most commonly used are the thionamides such as methimazole.
The use of antithyroid sera is falling into disuse because according to certain experts it can exert a placebo effect. The diiodotyrosine instead acts by inhibiting the passage of circulating thyroid hormones. Finally, the thionamides reduce the synthesis of these hormones preventing the transformation of the form of iodine into the circulation of the organism (the iodide), which may be used for their production (the free iodine).
How should antithyroid drugs be taken?
The antithyroid drugs should be taken under strict medical supervision, and remember that to find the doses suitable for restoring and maintaining the balance of thyroid hormones in the blood can take some time.
In terms of taking thionamides there are two possible approaches to its consumption:
- Assume a high dose of the drug until the hormone levels are stabilized and then reduce it progressively so as to maintain the amount of circulating thyroid hormones necessary to ensure the proper functioning of the organism;
- Assume a high enough dose of the medication in order to stop the production of hormones by the thyroid gland and, simultaneously, a dose of thyroid hormones to cope with the needs of the organism;
Usually, the first effects of the therapy become apparent after 10-14 days of treatment, but to stabilize hormone levels it can take up to 4 to 8 weeks.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of antithyroid medications
In general, antithyroid drugs do not cause adverse effects. However, there is a possibility to experience some of the following side effects:
- Skin rashes
- Itching
- Slight stomach discomfort
- Headaches
- Joint pain
In rare cases, these drugs can affect the production of the elements of blood, including white blood cells needed to fight infection and platelets necessary for blood clotting. Therefore, it is important to inform your doctor in case of sore throat, sores in the mouth, bleeding or unexplained bruising, rash, fever or any signs of infection associated with taking antithyroid medications.
Moreover, it is also essential to inform your doctor in case of pregnancy and if you are taking any other medications.
