Antithyroid
Antithyroid
Antithyroid (pronunciation: an-ti-thy-roid) refers to the medications or substances that inhibit the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.
Etymology
The term "antithyroid" is derived from the prefix "anti-" meaning against, and "thyroid" referring to the thyroid gland. Thus, antithyroid means against the thyroid gland.
Definition
Antithyroid drugs are a common treatment for hyperthyroidism, a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland. These drugs work by reducing the production and release of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland.
Types of Antithyroid Drugs
There are two main types of antithyroid drugs: Thionamides and Iodine.
- Thionamides - These include Methimazole and Propylthiouracil. They work by interfering with the thyroid gland's ability to use iodine to produce thyroid hormones.
- Iodine - High doses of iodine can also be used as an antithyroid agent. It works by temporarily inhibiting the thyroid gland's ability to produce and release thyroid hormones.
Related Terms
- Hyperthyroidism - A condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland.
- Hypothyroidism - A condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland.
- Thyroidectomy - A surgical procedure to remove all or part of the thyroid gland.
- Radioactive iodine therapy - A treatment for hyperthyroidism that involves taking radioactive iodine orally to shrink the thyroid gland and reduce its hormone production.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antithyroid
- Wikipedia's article - Antithyroid
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