European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Hypothyroidism, an autoimmune common endocrinopathies, where the TSH level elevates, which impairs activity in tissue level. It is the second most endocrine disorder, where the prevalence in females is more compared to males in second and third decades, with lifelong treatment. During the gestation period in women, there is increase in the demand of the thyroid hormone for the development of brain, essential functions of body cells, tissues, maintains the metabolism and other vital body functions in fetus. Iodine and zinc are essential components for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is characterized into primary, secondary (or) central, subclinical, chronic (or) transient, overt hypothyroidism and congenital hypothyroidism. The primary cause is chronic auto immune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) due to damage caused by chronic inflammation by one’s own immune system. The secondary cause is due to disruption in feedback loop at the level of pituitary gland. The complications in women due to hypothyroidism are varied. Women often present myriad symptoms as age increases. TSH is highly sensitive screening test along with T₃ and T₄ index also to be measured. The damage of thyroid gland can be detected by presence of antithyroid peroxide. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) screening indicates the bone resorption defect. Monotherapy of levothyroxine is the standard treatment and dose depends of patient’s age. Initial dose is 12.5 to 28 µg/day. Levothyroxine is safe during pregnancy, as it does not cross placental barrier. Hypothyroidism paves ways for the development of other co-morbid diseases. Undiagnosed dysfunction of thyroid hormone leads to mortality. Pharmacist role is to educate patients about basics of thyroid functions, risk and optimal therapy where by the observation gap and ineffective treatment can be rectified.