PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the most common medical therapy for hyperthyroidism?

1. Iodide therapy

2. Propranolol

3. Methimazole

4. Radioiodide ablation

The correct answer is: Methimazole

Methimazole is the most common medical therapy for hyperthyroidism, particularly in cases of Graves' disease, which is the most prevalent cause of hyperthyroidism. This medication is an antithyroid drug that effectively inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones by obstructing the enzyme thyroperoxidase, which plays a critical role in the production of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The action of methimazole helps to reduce the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and brings thyroid hormone levels back into a normal range. In addition to its efficacy, methimazole is preferred due to its relatively lower side effect profile compared to other treatments such as propylthiouracil, especially for patients not requiring immediate control of hyperthyroidism. While it may take several weeks for patients to experience symptom relief and normalization of thyroid hormone levels, its role remains central in the long-term management of the condition. Iodide therapy can temporarily suppress thyroid hormone release but is not typically used as a first-line treatment for hyperthyroidism. Propranolol is a beta-blocker primarily used to manage symptoms like palpitations and anxiety associated with hyperthyroidism, but it does not address the underlying hormonal imbalance