e. Thyroglobulin (Proloid). Thyroglobulin is obtained from a purified extract
of hog thyroid glands. This product provides both T3 and T4 hormones. Thyroglobulin is
used in the treatment of hypothyroidism. The dosage of this preparation must be
tailored to meet the needs of the individual patient. Adverse reactions associated with
the use of this product include nervousness, sweating, and tachycardia.
7-8.
MISCELLANEOUS PREPARATION
Strong Iodine Solution, USP (Lugol's solution). This preparation is used to
provide the patient with a source of iodine. As noted in paragraph 7-2, a sufficient
amount of iodine must be available to synthesize thyroid hormones. If iodine in the
required amounts is lacking in the diet, the thyroid gland can become enlarged. The
usual dosage of this product is 0.1 milliliters to 0.3 milliliters three times a day. The
patient can take this medication in orange juice to mask the iodine taste.
Section III. ANTITHYROID PREPARATIONS
7-9.
INTRODUCTION AND INDICATIONS
An anti-thyroid preparation inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones by
interfering with the binding of iodine into an organic form. The administration of such a
product is indicated in the treatment of hyperthyroidism and is sometimes given to a
patient before thyroid surgery.
7-10. ANTITHYROID PREPARATIONS
a. Methimazole (Tapazole). Methimazole is an antithyroid preparation used in
the treatment of hyperthyroidism. It is also sometimes given to patients who are to
undergo thyroid surgery or radiotherapy. Side effects associated with this agent include
unexplained sore throat, fever, or chills; loss of hearing; swollen lymph nodes; increase
in urination; and unusual bleeding or bruising. The dosage of this drug must be tailored
to meet the individual needs of the patient. This medication should not be taken by
pregnant women. Further, a woman should not take this preparation if she is breast-
feeding an infant. You should also inform the patient that the medication should be
taken each day in regularly spaced doses in order to achieve its desired effect. The
medication should be taken at about the same time and the same way. This is, if the
patient takes the medication with food, it should always be taken with food; if the
medication is taken on an empty stomach, it should always be taken on an empty
stomach. Two last precautions that should be communicated to the patient taking this
drug are: (a) inform the physician or dentist before you have any type of surgery and (b)
inform the physician immediately if you get an injury, infection, or illness of any type.
MD0807
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