Understanding Amiodarone's Impact on Thyroid Function

Amiodarone, primarily for heart arrhythmias, contains high iodine levels, which may disrupt thyroid function, leading to hypo- or hyperthyroidism in susceptible individuals.

Amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism (AIH) is more common, especially in regions with sufficient iodine intake. Symptoms are often subtle but can usually be managed with levothyroxine therapy.

Amiodarone-induced hyperthyroidism (AIH) occurs in two types: Type 1, iodine-induced excess hormone synthesis; Type 2, from destructive thyroiditis. Treatment depends on the type.

Risk factors for amiodarone-induced thyroid dysfunction include pre-existing thyroid antibodies, female gender, and prior thyroid pathology. Regular thyroid function monitoring is advised.

Management might require amiodarone discontinuation, though in many cases, treatment can proceed with close monitoring, and adjunct thyroid treatment as thyroid function may normalize post-therapy.

Amiodarone, despite causing thyroid issues, can actually treat certain thyroid cancers due to its high iodine content, which targets and destroys cancerous thyroid cells.