Posted: September 6th, 2023

Thyroid Disorders Case study

Thyroid Disorders Case study

Maria is a 29-year-old woman with a seven-month history of heavy, irregular menses, a 5-lb weight gain, constipation, and decreased energy. Her past history is unremarkable. She takes no prescription medications but uses iron and calcium supplements. She has a family history of thyroid disease. On examination, her weight is 152 lbs, her heart rate is 64 bpm, and her blood pressure is 138/86. Her thyroid gland is mildly enlarged, without nodularity. She has trace edema in her lower extremities, and her reflexes are slow.

Laboratory studies are as follows:

TSH is 15.3 mIU/mL (elevated), free T4 is 0.3 mIU/mL (decreased), and total cholesterol is 276 mg/mL.

Diagnosis: Primary Hypothyroidism

1. List specific goals of treatment for Maria. (75 words)
2. What drug therapy would you prescribe? Why? (75 words)
3. What are the parameters for monitoring the success of the therapy? (75 words)
4. Discuss specific patient education based on the prescribed therapy. (100 words)
5. List one or two adverse reactions for the selected agent that would cause you to change therapy. (50 words)
6. What would be the choice for second-line therapy? (50 words)
7. What over-the-counter and/or alternative medications would be appropriate for Maria? (50 words)
8. What lifestyle changes would you recommend to Maria? (100 words)
9. Describe one or two drug–drug or drug–food interactions for the selected agent. (50 words)

The specific goals of treatment for Maria would be to alleviate her symptoms, normalize her thyroid function tests, and prevent further complications such as cardiovascular disease, infertility, and depression.
The drug therapy of choice for primary hypothyroidism is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of T4 hormone. It is preferred due to its long half-life, consistent potency, and ease of administration. Maria’s initial dose should be low and gradually increased until her TSH levels normalize.
The parameters for monitoring the success of the therapy include regular measurement of TSH levels, as well as monitoring for symptom improvement, weight loss, and normalization of cholesterol levels.
Patient education for Maria should include adherence to the prescribed dose, the importance of regular follow-up appointments and lab tests, and the potential for drug interactions. She should be advised to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach, avoid consuming soy, calcium, and iron supplements with the medication, and report any adverse reactions or symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Adverse reactions to levothyroxine include palpitations, insomnia, weight loss, and osteoporosis. In case of adverse reactions, an alternative medication or dosage adjustment may be necessary.
Second-line therapy options for primary hypothyroidism include liothyronine (T3 hormone) or combination therapy with both T3 and T4 hormones. However, they are less preferred due to inconsistent absorption and potential for cardiac side effects.
Over-the-counter and alternative medications that may be appropriate for Maria include calcium and iron supplements, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, she should be advised to consult with her healthcare provider before taking any supplements or alternative medications.
Lifestyle changes that would be recommended for Maria include a balanced diet with adequate fiber and limited saturated fat, regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, and avoidance of smoking and excess alcohol consumption.
Levothyroxine absorption can be affected by certain medications such as proton pump inhibitors, antacids, and cholestyramine. Additionally, soy and high-fiber foods may interfere with its absorption. Maria should be advised to take her medication at least 4 hours apart from any of these agents.

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