Family Physician, 1991;3:42-45.

Abstract

Antithyroid drugs, radioiodine and surgery are lhe three modalities of treatment for Graves' hyperthyroidism. The treatment strategy depends on a clear understanding of the relative advantages and disadvantages of each mode of treatment as well as the individual patient's preference. Recent studies favour the use of high dose antithyroid drugs with thyroxine supplementation to induce a higher rate of remission. Radioiodine is likely to be favoured as the definitive form of treatment. Surgery still has a place particularly for young female patients with large goitres. Keywords: Antithyroid drugs, radioiodine, thyroidectomy.