Thyroid: Disorders, disruptors and drugs

Abstract

Thyroid disorders are one of the most common endocrine disorders. In India, estimated prevalence of thyroid disorders is more than 42 million, hypothyroidism being commonest. Drugs play an important role, both as adjuncts and as critical molecules, in managing thyroid problems including emergencies. This review emphasizes the role of drugs in the treatment of thyroid diseases. A detailed review of the symptomatology, investigations, and diagnosis of thyroid disorders is beyond the scope of this article. Hence, due consideration is give to the appropriate medical management of thyroid disorders with the help of goal-oriented algorithms. An additional note has been added on the concept of selective thyroid receptor modulators and thyroid disruptors. The cause of thyroid disease is more often primary in nature and originates from the thyroid itself. Hence, primary hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are considered in detail, and readers are referred to endocrinology reference books for a review of causes and treatment of secondary thyroid disorders. Medical management of thyroid disorders includes use of drugs, and drugs available for treatment of thyroid disorders are either synthetic preparations similar to natural hormones for replacement therapy in case of thyroid hypofunction or antithyroid drugs used to reduce the functional capacity of the gland during thyroid hyperfunction.