Medications for Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism Flashcards
_______ is an essential component of T3 and T4
Iodine
What is the more active form of thyroid hormone?
T3
Describe the synthesis and release of thyroid hormone:
The hypothalamus releases TRH
TRH causes release of TSH from the anterior pituitary
TSH acts on the thyroid which is controlling all aspects of thyroid hormone synthesis and release
The thyroid gland secretes more ____ than _____
T4, T3
Where is T4 converted to T3?
The periphery
Drugs used to treat hyperthyroidism (Grave’s Disease) include which antithyroid drugs (thioamines)?
Propylthiouracil (PTU)
Methimazole (Tapazole)
How do PTU and Methimazole work?
Block organification process (production of T3 and T4) by competing with thyroglobulin for oxidized iodide
Reduces synthesis of thyroid hormones
(meds are only useful in overproduction of thyroid hormones)
What is the onset of action of PTU and Methimazole and why?
1-2 weeks d/t thyroid gland stores
In addition to blocking the synthesis of the T3 and T4 what else can PTU block?
Peripheral conversion of T4 to T3
PTU and Methimazole can result in the formation of what? and why?
Goiter
Inhibition of thyroid hormone production leads to an upregulation of TSH release, the TSH is unable to increase thyroid hormone because of the medication, elevated TSH levels stimulate hypertrophy of the thyroid gland in an attempt to increase thyroid hormone synthesis
What common AE associated with PTU and Methimazole?
Pruritic rash early in treatment
Arthralgias (common reason for discontinuation)
What are rare but serious AE of PTU and Methimazole?
**Agranulocytosis- usu. w/in first 90days of treatment, monitor WBC at baseline and if patient has sore throat
Hepatotoxicity (assoc. w/allergic reaction)
Vasculitis (drug induced lupus)
What is the preferred treatment of hyperthyroidism?
Methimazole
Longer half life for once daily dosing
More potent
Less common serious AE than PTU
How often is PTU dosed?
TID (short half life)
PTU can lead to increased tendency to:
bleed d/t depletion of prothrombin levels