Hyperthyroidism Medications Antithyroid medication is often the first treatment of choice because it does not cause permanent thyroid damage and takes effect more quickly than radioactive iodine therapy.1 Antithyroid medications can control hyperthyroidism in most people, but as with all medications, there may be drawbacks. It takes several weeks for symptoms to start to subside. Other medications may be used to relieve symptoms until antithyroid medications take effect. Treatment with antithyroid medications needs to continue for at least 1 year. Symptoms may return after a few years, and medication must be resumed or another treatment tried. Side effects of antithyroid medications are rare but range in severity from a rash and itching to liver problems and lowered resistance to infection. Additional medications may be prescribed to treat symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat and dry eyes, caused by hyperthyroidism. Medication Choices Antithyroid medications Additional medications What to Think About Antithyroid medication is most effective for mild hyperthyroidism, for an initial episode of Graves' disease in people younger than 50 years of age, for toxic multinodular goiter, and for slight enlargement of the thyroid gland (small goiter). It is not used for thyroiditis. Antithyroid medication is often used to treat pregnant women. Radioactive iodine cannot be used by pregnant or breast-feeding women or by women who are trying to become pregnant. Children may be difficult to treat with antithyroid medication because their bodies are constantly changing. However, antithyroid medication is the preferred treatment because of the possibility of long-term risks related to radioactive iodine use in children. Often, low doses of thyroid hormone medication are taken along with antithyroid medication to prevent thyroid hormone levels from falling below normal. Antithyroid medication and radioactive iodine are the most common methods for treating hyperthyroidism. The following link can help you decide which treatment is best. From WebMD