Thyroid Hormone and Antithyroid Agents Quiz

Study Notes

Uses: Hypothyroidism treatment, myxedema coma, suppression of TSH to prevent goiters
Mechanism of Action: Synthetic forms of thyroxine (T4, T3) increase body metabolism, oxygen consumption, respiration, heart rate, growth, and maturation, and fat, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism.
Adverse Effects: Few adverse effects with correct dosage, but skin reactions, hair loss, and symptoms of hyperthyroidism may occur if the dose is too high. Less predictable effects include cardiac and central nervous system issues, and difficulty swallowing.

Uses: Hyperthyroidism treatment
Mechanism of Action: Prevent thyroid hormone formation in thyroid cells, reducing serum levels. Some also inhibit T4 to T3 conversion.
Adverse Effects: Effects of thyroid suppression, gastrointestinal issues, possible hypothyroidism, iodism, staining of teeth, skin rash and goiter formation.

Uses: Hypocalcemia treatment
Mechanism of Action: Regulate calcium and phosphate absorption from the small intestine, mineral reabsorption in bone, and phosphate reabsorption in renal tubes.
Adverse Effects: Gastrointestinal issues, central nervous system effects, increased drug level and/or toxicity, and hypercalcemia. Kidney or liver issues can worsen these effects.

Uses: Paget's disease treatment
Mechanism of Action: Slows or blocks bone resorption.
Adverse Effects: Interruption treatments can lead to severe hypocalcemia. Common side effects include abdominal pain, constipation, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, diarrhea, increased bone pain with Paget's disease, esophageal ulceration, increased risk of femoral shaft fractures, osteonecrosis of the jaw, skin flushing, nausea, vomiting, increased urinary frequency, and local inflammation at injection sites. Intranasal administration can cause dryness and irritation. Many side effects diminish over time.