Drug-Induced Hyperthyroidism Flashcards
What drug commonly causes hyperthyroidism and why
AMIODARONE
High iodine content - hyperthyroidism
Inhibits conversion of T4 to T3 (hypothyroidism
Role of AMIODARONE
Anti-arrythmic
What elements can cause hyperthyroidism if found in a drug
Iodine
Lithium
What are the clinical presentations of drug-induced hyperthyroidism
- Palpatations
- Diarrhoea
- Weight LOss
- Heat Intolerance
- Tremors
- Warm
- Hyperkinesis
- Anxiety
- Diffuse Goitre
DIFFUSE GOITRE and WASTING are the biggest signs
In elderly how can drug-induced hyperthyroidism be caused
- Atrial Fibrillation
2. Heart Failure
In children, how can drug-induced hyperthyroidism be caused
- Excessive height or GR
2. Behavioural problems (ADHD)
How is Hyperthyroidism treated
- PROPRANOLOL (controls symptoms)
- PROPYLTHIOURACIL (stops conversion of T4 to T3)
- ORAL Carbimazole and THYROXINE which reduces hypothyroidism risk
Why do half of those with Graves’ relapse after 2 years
Discontinue treatment after two years
What is the main side-effect of treating hypothyroidism
Agranulocytosis - leads to Low white blood cells count (leukopenia)
Rash (less common)
When should drugs stop being given to patients with Graves’ or hypothyroidism
If they get throat, mouth ulcers
Fevers
When should radioactive iodine be given
4 days after anti-thyroid drugs have been stopped
How long does 131-I take for normal thyroid to function
4-12 weeks after radioactive iodine
When can radioactive iodine be contraindicated
Pregnancy and breast feeding
Side-effects of giving radioactive iodine
Discomfort in the ne ck and hyperthyroidism initially
When should surgery be given to individuals with hyperthyroidism
- Those with large goitre, poor response to drugs or experiencing severe side-effects from treatment
What is subtotal thyroidectomy
Leaves a bit of thyroid (nota ll removed) to preserve function