Clinical Pharmacy endocrinology

hyperthyroidism

Topic overview

Start with the big picture

Biochemical hyperthyroidism is identified by low TSH with elevated free T4 and/or T3; thyroid tests are repeated after treatment changes to assess response. Causes include Graves disease, nodular thyroid disease, thyroiditis, and certain drugs or iodine exposure. Management may address adrenergic symptoms with a beta-blocker, reduce hormone production with thionamides, or use radioactive iodine as definitive therapy. The lesson also covers iodine’s short-term role, emergency management of thyroid storm, treatment considerations in pregnancy, and follow-up after therapy. Medication risks and patient counseling are important parts of care, including recognizing symptoms that warrant urgent assessment.

Learning objectives

What you'll learn

  • Interpret thyroid function tests used to confirm biochemical hyperthyroidism.
  • Identify common causes of hyperthyroidism, including drug-related causes.
  • Compare symptom control, thionamides, and radioactive iodine as management approaches.
  • Recognize key considerations in thyroid storm and pregnancy.
  • Describe monitoring and counseling priorities during treatment.
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