Long-term methimazole therapy in Graves' hyperthyroidism and adverse reactions: a Danish multicenter study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Graves' hyperthyroidism (GH) is a common autoimmune disorder.
• Anti-thyroid drugs (ATD) are a primary treatment for GH.
• Understanding ATD adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency, timing, and characteristics of ADRs in patients with newly diagnosed GH treated with ATD.
• To analyze ADRs over a 48-month treatment period.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, multicenter study design.
• 208 patients with newly diagnosed GH were included.
• Patients were treated with ATD, followed for up to 48 months, with regular blood samples and adverse event recording.

Main Results:

• 10% of patients experienced ADRs, with 75% occurring within the first 6 months.
• Skin reactions were the most frequent ADR (68%).
• No cases of hepatic or bone marrow affection were recorded.

Conclusions:

• ADRs associated with ATD treatment for GH predominantly occur early in the treatment course.
• Long-term, low-dose methimazole is a viable treatment option, provided severe ADRs are monitored.
• The study highlights the safety profile of ATD in GH management, emphasizing the low incidence of severe adverse events.