Hyperthyroidism

Prevention

Hyperthyroidism caused by taking too much thyroid medication can be prevented by following your doctor's instructions and periodically getting blood tests to check blood thyroid levels. Naturally occurring hyperthyroidism cannot be prevented .

Treatment

Hyperthyroidism is most often treated with anti-thyroid drug therapy, using propylthiouracil (sold as a generic drug) or methimazole (Tapazole, Thiamazole) to block the formation of thyroid hormones. Beta-blocker drugs such as propranaolol (Inderal) also may be used to control symptoms. Radioactive iodine, which destroys the thyroid, is a more permanent option for treating hyperthyroidism caused by Graves’ disease. Another option that is used rarely now is surgery to remove part of the thyroid gland in a procedure called subtotal thyroidectomy.