Cause 7: Certain Medications
Medications play a crucial role in managing various health conditions. However, certain drugs can interfere with iodine metabolism, leading to iodine deficiency. This is particularly true for medications containing lithium and certain types of antithyroid drugs.
Lithium, often used in treating mental health disorders like bipolar disorder, can inhibit thyroid hormone release, leading to reduced levels of these hormones despite adequate iodine intake. Similarly, antithyroid medications used to treat hyperthyroidism can block iodine utilization in the thyroid gland.
Even though these medications are necessary for managing the conditions they are prescribed for, they can inadvertently lead to iodine deficiency if not carefully monitored. This highlights the delicate balance involved in managing thyroid health, where the treatment for one condition can trigger another if not carefully managed. (7)
