I got my thyroid results. It is hyperthyroidism. Doctor suggests to go for radioactive iodine. What to do? Are there any alternative treatments?

Question

Lybrate-user, hyperthyroidism is treated in the following manner:
1) using anti thyroid drugs like methimazole, carbimazole or propylthiouracil. One of these drugs is given for a period of 18 to 24 months. This causes suppression of thyroid gland. Occasionally after 18 to 24 months normal function returns. Treatment is discontinued. However, in many cases suppression does not occur. Then other options are considered.
2) radio active iodine: this is given in a small dose, absorbed by thyroid gland. It destroys the secreting cells. Thyroid function is lost, hypothyroidism develops. Patient has to then take thyroxine hormone for life time.
3) surgical removal of the gland: this is another option employed in some patients. After surgery patient develops hypothyroidism and has to be treated by thyroxine for lifetime. Thanks.

Prabhakar Laxman Jathar · Accepted Answer

Lybrate-user, hyperthyroidism is treated in the following manner:
1) using anti thyroid drugs like methimazole, carbimazole or propylthiouracil. One of these drugs is given for a period of 18 to 24 months. This causes suppression of thyroid gland. Occasionally after 18 to 24 months normal function returns. Treatment is discontinued. However, in many cases suppression does not occur. Then other options are considered.
2) radio active iodine: this is given in a small dose, absorbed by thyroid gland. It destroys the secreting cells. Thyroid function is lost, hypothyroidism develops. Patient has to then take thyroxine hormone for life time.
3) surgical removal of the gland: this is another option employed in some patients. After surgery patient develops hypothyroidism and has to be treated by thyroxine for lifetime. Thanks.