Thyroid Disorders Drug Directory

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that wraps around the windpipe (trachea). It is responsible for making certain hormones involved with vital functions in the body, such as digestion, growth, and heart rate. Problems with the thyroid can lead to abnormal thyroid hormone levels and health complications. Around 20 million people are reported to have some type of thyroid disorder, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of thyroid disorder, and thyroid disorders are often diagnosed through measuring thyroid hormone levels. Medication is usually the treatment of choice for thyroid disorders. Surgery may be recommended depending on the type of disorder.