Is it safe to discontinue hyperthyroidism medication after noticing improvements?

Question

Hello doctor,

Three months back, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and my doctor prescribed Thyrozol 10mg daily. Since then, I have made some changes to my diet and lifestyle, and I have noticed improvements. I have attached the results of my blood tests from this month. I am interested in stopping my medication and would appreciate a second opinion from an endocrinologist. I would like the endocrinologist to review my blood test results and provide guidance on whether it is safe for me to discontinue the medication.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliiq.com.

I have reviewed your query along with the attached reports (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), and I have some questions to better understand your situation:

When were you initially diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and do you have the results from the initial diagnostic tests?
How long have you been receiving treatment for hyperthyroidism?
Have you experienced any specific symptoms related to weight and menstrual changes, both when you were diagnosed and since then?

With thyroid gland dysfunction, once the medication is discontinued, the gland often reverts to its previous state. The objective of thyroid treatment is to maintain normal thyroid function as long as the medication is administered. However, once the medication is stopped, the test results gradually return to abnormal levels, except in certain cases where close follow-up is necessary, depending on the duration of prior medication use and the extent of gland suppression.

To make an informed decision about discontinuing medication, it is important for me to determine whether you have received anti-thyroid medication for a sufficient duration to achieve long-term suppression of hyperthyroidism.

Kindly revert with the information.

Thank you.