Radioiodine therapy
Radioiodine therapy is a therapy method from the field of nuclear medicine. It is used for various diseases of the thyroid gland, including thyroid autonomy, Graves’ disease, thyroid enlargement and certain forms of thyroid cancer. The therapy is carried out as an in-patient treatment in Germany and requires a hospital stay of at least 48 hours.
During therapy, the patient swallows a capsule containing a radioactive iodine-131 isotope. Since only the thyroid gland can absorb iodine, only the pathologically altered cells of the thyroid gland are attacked and rendered harmless. The radiation of the iodine used extends only a few millimeters and usually does not damage surrounding structures. Strict radiation protection regulations, however, prescribe an inpatient stay, a temporary ban on contact and strict disposal of excretions such as urine and stool.
Medication for hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is treated with a lifelong supply of the hormone that is not produced or is reduced. The dose is adjusted to the individual patient and slowly increased until the symptoms of hypothyroidism disappear and the blood levels are within the reference values. Hypothyroidism should be monitored regularly.
Hypothyroidism is usually the result of chronic thyroid inflammation (so-called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) or occurs as a result of surgical treatment of the thyroid gland. Liothyronine or triiodothyronineT3, which is only triiodothyronine, is usually only used in combination with thyroxine. T4 (tetraiodothyronine, L-thyroxine or levothyroxine) T3 (triiodothyronine, liothyronine) Mixed preparations: T4 and T3
- Trade names: L-Thyrox, L-Thyroxine, Euthyrox, Eferox, Berlthyrox, Thevier
- Trade names: Thybon, Thyrotardin, Triiodothyronine
- Trade names: Novothyral, Prothyrid, Thyroxine-T3, Thyrootome
Medicines for iodine deficiency
Iodine deficiency is a special form of thyroid disease. An insufficient supply of iodine initially leads to an underfunctioning of the thyroid gland.As a result, the cells of the organ are stimulated to grow and a goiter can form. As a result, an overactive thyroid gland can also develop.
Since the disorder is caused by an iodine deficiency, the treatment consists in the intake of iodine. The treatment is carried out by an increased intake via iodine-containing foods such as sea fish or sea algae, by the use of iodized table salt or the intake of iodine tablets. Pregnant women and adolescents in particular should ensure an adequate supply of iodine, as otherwise severe mental and physical developmental disorders may occur. Potassium iodide Sodium iodide
- Trade names: Iodettes, Iodide, Potassium Iodate, Mono-iodine, Stumedical, Strumex
