Anti-thyroid Medications for Hyperthyroidism

Anti-thyroid medications sometimes written as anti-thyroid medications are a common treatment for hyperthyroidism, particularly if you have an ongoing form of hyperthyroidism caused by Graves' disease or a goiter. The goal of anti-thyroid medications is to prevent the thyroid from producing excess amounts of hormone.

In the US, there are two anti-thyroid medications available propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole/Tapazole. The medications are similar, as they both stop the thyroid from producing T3 and T4 hormones.

Propylthiouracil (PTU)

One of the advantages of PTU is that it has a lower risk of birth defects and therefore it is the first line treatment for pregnant women.

A disadvantage is that PTU is only available in 50-milligram units. You need to take it in three equal doses, approximately 8 hours apart, each day. According to the American Thyroid Association clinical guidelines, daily dosage varies from 100 to 600 milligrams, depending on the seriousness of your condition and your age. This information is general, as dosing varies from patient to patient. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.

Methimazole (Tapazole)

The main benefit of Tapazole is that it can be taken one, two, or three times a day. Pills are available in 5 or 10 milligrams. It also has fewer side effects and often reverses hyperthyroidism quickly.

Tapazole is more concentrated than PTU. According to the American Thyroid Association clinical guidelines, daily dosage varies from 10 to 40 milligrams, depending on the seriousness of your condition and your age. Again, this information is general, as dosing varies from patient to patient. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.

Side Effects of Anti-thyroid Medications

Adverse reactions to anti-thyroid medications are uncommon, but they do occur. These side effects include rash, itching, abnormal hair loss, and fever. Less common side effects include nausea, swelling, heartburn, muscle and joint aches, numbness, and headache.

In very rare instances, both drugs can cause liver damage. In the most severe of cases, this can result in death. Regular follow-up visits with your doctor will greatly reduce the risk of this severe complication.

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