Effect of amiodarone on thyroid hormone economy

Serum thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), resin uptake of T3 (RT3U), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and TSH response to thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) were measured in 92 patients treated with amiodarone for up to 4 years. Two patients developed thyrotoxicosis, while euthyroid hyperthyroxinemia occurred in 29 (32%). Hypothyroidism was diagnosed in 11 patients (12%), and a further 11 had tests consistent with a "failing thyroid." Of 39 patients with normal values of T4, 15 had abnormal responses to TRH. Of the 92 patients, 24 were tested before administration of amiodarone and then sequentially; alterations in thyroid function were frequent within the first 3 months. A scheme is proposed for early recognition of disturbed thyroid function due to amiodarone.