- Checkpoint inhibitors
These meds are used for the treatment of tumors. Some examples are Opdivo and Yervoy. However, they also lead to hormonal changes, including the ones secreted by the thyroid.
In several studies, between 4 percent to 14 percent of people who received this medication also had hypothyroidism. And, the risk was the highest with combination therapy.
- Interleukin-2
Prescribed for the treatment of leukemia and other types of cancer, this medication has also been associated with hypothyroidism.
In fact, a small percentage of individuals who were taking this medication developed thyroiditis, a condition that may contribute to a higher risk of hypothyroidism.
- Interferon alfa
Given for the treatment of melanoma, leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s, Kaposi’s, hepatitis, and HPV, this medication may also lead to thyroid function changes if it’s taken for a longer period of time.
This medication also causes the body to produce antibodies that prevent the thyroid gland from functioning optimally. In fact, up to 15 percent of individuals with these antibodies will suffer from a thyroid disease such as hypothyroidism.
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitors
This type of medication is used for the treatment of leukemia and other types of cancer. Unfortunately, up to 40 percent of people who take this type of medication will develop hypothyroidism.
Studies have also concluded that this may occur within a couple of weeks or after several months after starting the therapy.
