The thyroid gland represents a very important organ and it is also the largest endocrine gland in the body. These glands work by releasing the hormones into the blood, unlike exocrine glands that do the opposite: release hormones into ducts. Two hormones are produced by thyroid gland: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). When the thyroid gland starts to work improperly it leads to the dysfunctions such as an increase or decrease in the production of thyroid hormones; in medical terms – hyper/hypothyroidism.  Other problems that overactive thyroid gland can evoke are Graves’ disease and thyroid storm; underactive thyroid is able to cause thyroiditis. Such conditions as goiter, thyroid cancer and cretinism are also connected with the dysfunction of the thyroid gland.

The treatment of the condition fully depends on the type of it.

In case of hypothyroidism it is important to know whether it is a T3 or T4 deficiency. If it is the former case then levothyroxine (an artificial supplement of thyroxine) is given; if the latter – liothyronine should be taken twice or thrice a day. In other cases Armour thyroid medication can be given as it contains both T3 and T4.

Hyperthyroidism is treated with other cures. In order to prevent the gland from producing excessive amounts of hormones and in general to control the production propylthiouracil, or PTU (2-3 times a day), and methimazole (once a day) are administered.

Apart from the above medications there are some others. For instance, beta-blockers are used when the heart-related consequent effects of hyperthyroidism need to be controlled. Iodide solutions are also used in the purposes of reduction of hormone production; especially in the case of Graves’ disease. Radioactive Iodine (I-131) represents the most powerful remedy which purpose is to eliminate cells of cancer in the thyroid; another purpose of it is to treat hyperthyroidism and nontoxic multi-nodular goiter. This medication is considered effective and harmless altogether as no adverse effects have been known so far. It has, nevertheless, a contraindication: pregnant women should not take it.

It is very important to take any thyroid medication in the morning because they perform the best if the stomach is empty. It is also recommended to wait half an hour after administering the drug and then eat. It will also make the process of drug absorption a lot more effective. As well as washing the pills with water.

It is recommended not to take a laissez-faire attitude to the problem of thyroid in order not to face any complications later.