De Quervain's thyroiditis medical therapy

De Quervain's thyroiditis Microchapters
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Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating De Quervain's thyroiditis from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Criteria
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
CT
MRI
Echocardiography or Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary prevention
Secondary prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]

Overview

The mainstay of therapy for de Quervain's thyroiditis is aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain control. Beta-adrenergic blockers are recommended for the patients who develop thyrotoxic symptoms. Corticosteroids are usually used in severely ill patients.

Medical Therapy

The drugs used in the treatment of de Quervain's thyroiditis are:

1. Asprin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):
   • Aspirin and NSAIDs are used for pain control.
2. Beta adrenergic blockers:
   • Beta-adrenergic blockers such as propranolol and atenolol are used for controlling thyrotoxic symptoms.
3. Corticosteroids:
   • Corticosteroids usually show a dramatic response in severely ill patients within 24-48 hours.
4. Levothyroxine:
   • It is required if the patient develops hypothyroidism following the resolution of the hyperthyroid state.

Drug Regimens:

• Naproxen: 500 to 1000 mg per day in two divided doses
• Ibuprofen: 1200 to 3200 mg per day in three or four divided doses
• Prednisone: 40 mg per day orally
• Synthetic levothyroxine (L-T4): 1.6–1.8 μg/kg per day orally