Over-the-counter-drug-induced thyroid disorders.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis.
• Excessive iodine intake can disrupt thyroid function.
• Over-the-counter (OTC) iodine supplements are widely available.

Observation:

• Four patients presented with significant thyroid dysfunction after ingesting OTC drugs with high iodine concentrations.
• Case 1: Acute thyrotoxicosis exacerbation from Tri-iodine™.
• Case 2: Thyrotoxicosis from Thyromine™.
• Cases 3 & 4: Severe hypothyroidism in Hashimoto's disease patients from Iodoral™.

Findings:

• OTC iodine supplements can induce both thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism.
• Patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions are particularly vulnerable.
• Thyroid dysfunction resolved upon discontinuation of OTC iodine products.

Implications:

• High-dose OTC iodine supplements pose significant risks for thyroid health.
• There is no established benefit to high-dose iodine supplementation.
• Clinicians should be aware of potential iodine toxicity from OTC products.