Pharmacology of Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism in pregnancy
Main Article Content
Abstract
Hypothyroidism is a disease that results when the thyroid gland does not produce enough
hormones. There are several causes of hypothyroidism, which includes: autoimmune
thyroiditis, iodine deficiency and so on. Hypothyroidism can occur in pregnancy, and this
disease can be either overt or subclinical during gravidity. The symptoms of hypothyroidism
include poor concentration, extreme weakness, abnormal skin changes, and swelling of the
extremities. It is difficult to assess hypothyroidism in pregnancy because this disease mimics
symptoms of pregnancy. Therefore, screening of high-risk patients has proven to be
beneficial in recent times. Furthermore, the drug of choice for hypothyroidism remains
levothyroidise, and there was a diagrammatic representation in my thesis of how it should be
used in treating hypothyroidism. Untreated hypothyroidism in pregnancy can lead to serious,
life-threatening complications such as: placenta abruption and so on. Poor fetal neurological
development might be a resultant consequence of maternal hypothyroidism.
The thyroid gland is a distinct anatomy comprising of right left, superior and pyramidal lobes.
The right and left lobes are connected to each other vis an isthmus. It also has fascias and
suspensory ligaments, which forms the bulk of the connective tissues. The principal arteries
of the thyroid gland are the superior and inferior thyroid arteries. The venous drainage of the
thyroid gland is as follows: the superior and middle thyroid vein drains into the internal
jugular vein. While the inferior thyroid veins drain into the right brachiocephalic vein. The
functional unit of the thyroid is the follicle, which contain colloid particles that aid in the
production of thyroid hormone.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where there is overproduction of thyroid hormones. There are
clinical manifestations of the disease like heat intolerance, weight loss, skin and hair changes
as well as mental changes. Early diagnosis and prompt management of thyrotoxicosis and
hyperthyroidism were discussed below. Methimazole, propylthiouracil are used to treat
hyperthyroidism in pregnancy. Beta-blockers are used as adjunctive therapy and are
especially used in controlling thyroid storms. The side effects of these medications during
pregnancy should be considered before initiating therapy.
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