Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough of the hormones that regulate metabolism. It is one of the most common endocrine disorders, affecting approximately 10 million people in the United States. It occurs more often in women than men and often develops around middle age.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. This can happen if your body doesn’t make it if your immune system attacks and damages your thyroid gland, or if you take certain medications. (1)

There are two kinds of thyroid hormone: T4, which is inactive, and T3, which is active. The body converts the inactive form into the active form to control metabolism. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ that sits just below the Adam’s apple in your neck. It produces hormones that control metabolism, the rate at which your body uses energy. The thyroid also controls how sensitive your body is to other hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline. If you have hypothyroidism, your body doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone. This can cause a wide range of symptoms, including weight gain, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, and depression. (2, 3)

8 Medications That Can Cause Hypothyroidism

There are several reasons why you could develop hypothyroidism. One of these reasons may be medications that disrupt your endocrine system. Here are eight common medications that can contribute to hypothyroidism:

1. Amiodarone (Cordarone)
2. Lithium (Eskalith)
3. Iodine-containing medications, like potassium iodide (SSKI) or potassium iodate (SSKI)
4. Methimazole (Tapazole) or propylthiouracil (PTU) for hyperthyroidism or Graves’ disease
5. Interferon-alpha for hepatitis C treatment (Actimmune) or hepatitis B treatment (Rebetron)
6. Levothyroxine sodium tablets used to treat hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
7. Metformin for type 2 diabetes
8. Prilosec for heartburn and other stomach problems

While all of these medications have a purpose and are sometimes necessary, ensure you discuss all possibilities and options with your doctor. Know the risks and symptoms and monitor your health closely. If you notice something that changes in your health after beginning medication, be sure to speak to your doctor about it. Always speak up for yourself, and if you don’t feel like you are getting the care, don’t be afraid to change doctors or seek out another opinion.

Sources

• “11 Medications That Can Cause Drug-Induced Hypothyroidism.” Rupa Health. Dr. Jaime Cloyd  ND
• “DRUGS THAT SUPPRESS TSH OR CAUSE CENTRAL HYPOTHYROIDISM.” NCBI. Bryan R. Haugen, MD. December 1.
• “Drugs and Other Substances Interfering with Thyroid Function.” Springer. Lucia Montanelli, Salvatore Benvenga, Laszlo Hegedüs, Paolo Vitti, Francesco Latrofa and Leonidas H. Duntas. May 31, 2018.
• “8 Medications That Can Cause Hypothyroidism” GoodRx. April 29, 2020.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.