Thyroid medications are drugs used to control symptoms of thyroid diseases. Several types are available, including:

• Antithyroid medications. Drugs that prevent the thyroid gland from producing excess hormones, used to treat hyperthyroidism and some thyroid nodules and tumors.
  
  
• Thyroid hormone. Synthetic or natural thyroid hormones, used mainly to treat hypothyroidism.
  
  
• Beta blockers. Antihypertensives prescribed primarily for high blood pressure and heart conditions. They also are effective in treating symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
  
  
• Radioactive iodine therapy. A treatment that destroys the thyroid gland, used to treat some cases of hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer.

Side effects vary depending on the type of drug. Certain drugs may interact poorly when taken with thyroid medications. Patients are urged to take their medication as directed and consult their physician before taking any additional drugs or supplements.