LECTURE 38: therapeutics of thyroid disorders Flashcards
(54 cards)
What is the gold standard for measuring thyroid function?
TSH levels
What does low TSH levels indicate? Why?
hyperthyroidism, the thyroid is overperforming so body understimulates to try to compensate
What does high TSH levels indicate? Why?
hypothyroidism, the thyroid is underperforming so body overstimulates to try to compensate
The most accurate test for measuring thyroid function measures the levels of what?
Free T4
List the treatment options for HYPERthyroidism
Thioamides
RAI (radioactive iodine)
Surgery (thyroidectomy)
List Thioamides used for treatment of HYPERthyroidism
PTU
Methimazole
What is the dosing for PTU?
Q8-10h
What is the dosing for Methimazole?
daily
Does PTU block T4 -> T3 conversion?
yes
Does Methimazole block T4 -> T3 conversion?
no
When is PTU safe to use in pregnancy?
1st trimester
When is Methimazole safe to use in pregnancy?
2nd + 3rd trimester
(start after 16 weeks)
Is PTU safe to use during lactation?
NO
Is Methimazole safe to use during lactation?
YES
Does PTU have a black box warning?
YES, hepatic toxicity
Does Methimazole have a black box warning?
also hepatic toxicity
(according to google)
Which thioamide symptoms indicate that the patient should d/c thioamide used?
Rash with wheals, hives, SOB
Agranulocytosis
Hepatitis
What counseling should be given to a patient on thioamides experiencing GI upset (n/v)?
take w/ meals, divided doses
What type of rash indicates that the patient does not have to immediately d/c thioamides, and can just switch to another thioamide?
maculopapular, no systemic symptoms
List warning signs to look for with a patient on thioamides that may indicate agranulocytosis
cold sores
fever, chills, sore throat
What should be monitored for a patient on thioamides to test for efficacy?
√T-4, t-3, TSH initially Q4-6 weeks until euthyroid, then √Q3-6 months while on thioamides
TSH can be misleading – remains suppressed after T-4 & T-3 normalize
How often should testing should be done after a patient d/c a thioamide?
√Q4-6 weeks for first 3-4 months, then test yearly after
Describe RAI (radioactive iodine) treatment
Slow destruction of thyroid gland with 131-I radioactive isotope
List the contraindications for RAI treatment
current pregnancy
current lactation
planning pregnancy <6 months