Thyroid Medications

Each one of us has a thyroid gland, which is located at the front most portion of the neck just below the cartilage of the thyroid or Adam’s apple.

The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones which function as regulators of the body’s metabolism. In addition to that, the thyroid hormones also function as regulators for energy consumption, maturation, and growth of the tissues of the body. 

Diseases which cause an imbalance of the thyroid hormones are classified as either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. When a person is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it means that the person has low production of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, deals with the overproduction of the thyroid hormones. When either of the diseases is detected in a person, he or she will be prescribed medication in order to maintain balance in the thyroid hormone levels in the body.

Hypothyroidism Medications

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1) Levothyroxine

Otherwise known as T4 or L thyroxine (Synthroid), Levothyroxine is a synthetic drug that replaces the natural T4 hormones of the body. It is a medication that is given for an underactive (hypo) thyroid. Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Unithroid are examples of this drug. 

2) Desiccated Thyroid

It is another hormone replacement drug which is used for individuals who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism and myxedema. Desiccated thyroid hormones are taken from the thyroid glands of animals – usually beef or porcine. The thyroid glands are dried up and ground for therapeutic use. Armour Thyroid is a type of desiccated thyroid.

3) Liothyronine

Liothyronine is a replacement medication for the T3 hormone. It usually comes in oral drug form and is prescribed for people who have hypothyroidism. Some brands of Liothyronine are Cytomel and Thyrostat.

4) Liotrix

It is a medication that combines both Levothyroxine and Liothyronine and works by supplementing the lack of both hormones in the body. Thyrolar is an example of this drug.

Hyperthyroidism Medications

Meanwhile, those who are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism are prescribed with the following medications:

5) Thioamides

The common thioamides are PTU or Propylthiouracil, Carbimazole, and Methimazole.  It is an antithyroid medication that is used to treat hyperthyroidism which may be used prior to surgery or radiotherapy or preparative therapy. It is also being used for persons who have Graves’ disease.

6) Iodine solutions

Iodine solutions include radioactive iodine, SKKI, and Lugol's solution. When using radioactive iodine, you should use a straw to drink the solution in order to prevent the liquid from staining your teeth. Iodine solutions, in general, are antiseptic combinations that also kill bacteria.

Natural Or Alternative Thyroid Medications

Aside from the pharmacological medication, the patient can also choose to opt for natural or alternative thyroid medications. One example of which is Thyax.

Things To Keep In Mind

Here are some things to consider when taking Thyroid Medications:

• Following the exact dosage prescribed by your doctor
• Take the medication on an empty stomach
• Never take antacids prior to taking thyroid medications
• Spacing out other medications from your thyroid medication so as not to interfere with the drug action
• Double check the expiration date

Following these simple tips will help you in maintaining the balance of your thyroid hormones and will prevent the symptoms and ill effects of the condition.