Thyroid medications are drugs used to control symptoms of thyroid diseases. Several types of thyroid medications are available. They include:

• Antithyroid medications. Medications used to treat hyperthyroidism by preventing the thyroid gland from producing excess hormones.
  
  
• Thyroid hormone. Usually this is a synthetic version of natural thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and/or triiodothyronine (T3). It is usually given to patients whose thyroid does not function efficiently. However, the drug can also be used to suppress further growth of thyroid tissue.
  
  
• Beta blockers. Antihypertensives prescribed primarily for high blood pressure and heart conditions. However, they also are effective in treating symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism.
  
  
• Radioactive iodine therapy. A treatment used to destroy the thyroid gland. 

Antithyroid medications are prescribed to treat symptoms associated with a variety of thyroid conditions, primarily Graves’ disease and other causes of hyperthyroidism and, in some cases, thyroid nodules and tumors.

Patients are urged to report any allergies to their physician. It is especially important that patients report allergies to pork or beef if they are considering taking animal-derived thyroid hormone.

Side effects associated with thyroid medications vary depending on the type of drug. Symptoms of overdose can be similar to the medication’s side effects but are usually more severe.

Certain drugs may interact poorly when taken with thyroid medications. Patients are urged to consult their physician before taking any additional prescriptions, over-the-counter medications or supplements.

Patients are urged to follow their physician’s recommendations for taking thyroid medications and to adjust their daily routine accordingly. For example, some thyroid medications should be taken on an empty stomach, whereas others should be taken with food.

Certain thyroid medications may not be appropriate for all populations. For instance, pregnant women, elderly individuals and parents of children with thyroid disorders should consult a physician regarding which treatments and dosages are advisable.