Thyroid Flashcards
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Fatigue, cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin, unexplained weight gain, elevated cholesterol, heavy/irregular menses, thin hair, slow HR, depression, impaired memory
Treatment of Hypothyroidism
Synthroid/Levothyroxine (T4) is preferred
Cytomel/Liothyronine (T3)
Contraindications for thyroid replacement
any condition that tachycardia is dangerous
Why is T4 preferred for thyroid replacement?
Longer half life and less potential for cardiac toxicity
Why is T3 not preferred for thyroid replacement?
short half life, usually taken in combination with T4
What do you have to consider when prescribing T4?
if patient is taking bile acid sequestrants, iron and antacids, estrogen, beta-blockers, digoxin, warfarin
What can decrease the absorption of T4?
bile acid sequestrants, antacids, iron
What can decrease the body’s response to T4 replacement?
estrogen
What does T4 affect the efficacy of?
beta blockers, digoxin, warfarin
What symptoms would you have if your dose of T4 is too high?
hyperthyroid symptoms - weight loss, palpitations, increased appetite, menstrual irregularities
What is monitored when prescribing T4? How often do you monitor it?
TSH, T4
Check TSH after 3 mo, adjust dose by 10-25 mcg increments at 8 week intervals until TSH is in normal range
What is the goal of thyroid replacement therapy?
to maintain TSH within normal limits
What can lead to “burn out” of the thyroid?
chronic lithium therapy so TSH should be screened, may need replacement therapy
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism
Sudden weight loss, tachycardia, arrhythmia, palpitations, increased appetite, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, tremor, sweating, changes in menses, heat intolerance, frequent BMs, goiter, difficulty sleeping, skin thinning, fine, brittle hair
Treatment for hyperthyroidism
- Thioamides
2. Radioactive Iodine
