What are the dosages for medications in thyroid storm (Hyperthyroidism crisis)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 12, 2025 • View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Research

Medications for Thyroid Storm

The treatment of thyroid storm involves a multidrug approach, including:

  • Thionamides to decrease new hormone synthesis 1
  • Iodine to inhibit the release of thyroid hormone 1
  • Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists to block the peripheral effects of thyroid hormone 1, 2
  • Corticosteroids in certain circumstances 1
  • Supportive therapy 1
  • Alternative therapy with cholestyramine, lithium carbonate, or potassium perchlorate in certain conditions 1

Dosages for Medications

While the provided studies do not specify exact dosages for medications in thyroid storm, they do mention the importance of:

  • Beta blocker drugs to control signs and symptoms 2
  • Thiouracil drugs for varying periods of time before I-131 treatment 2
  • I-131 therapy with 370-740 MBq (10-20 mCi) 2

Treatment Approach

The treatment approach for thyroid storm involves:

  • Inhibiting hormone synthesis and release 3
  • Inhibiting peripheral conversion of T4 to T3 3
  • Blocking the systemic effects of excess thyroid hormone 3
  • Therapeutic plasma exchange or thyroidectomy for patients who fail medical therapy 4

References

1
Research

Thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm.

Endocrinology and metabolism clinics of North America, 2006

3
Research

Hyperthyroidism and thyroid storm.

Emergency medicine clinics of North America, 1989

4
Research

Thyroid storm: an updated review.

Journal of intensive care medicine, 2015

Related Questions

Is thyroid storm associated with low or high Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels?
How to manage acute coronary syndrome in a patient with thyroid storm?
What is the best first treatment for a patient suspected of having thyroid storm, in addition to supportive measures, presenting with tachycardia, hypertension, agitation, and hyperthermia?
What is the most frequent electrolyte imbalance in thyroid storm?
How often should T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) levels be monitored in a patient with thyroid storm?
What trials are available for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) associated Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?
What trials are available for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) associated Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?
What antibody is a female with a history of recurrent fetal losses at 8-14 weeks post-ovulation (PO) expected to have?
Can dapsone and Clofazimine cause hepatitis?
What is the diagnosis and treatment for Heparin (unfractionated heparin) induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)?
What is the role of ARB (Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker) in hypertension?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.

Ask Question