Thyrogen

Thyrogen (also known as Thyrotropin Alfa) is a medication used in the field of endocrinology to stimulate the thyroid gland. It is a synthetic form of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is naturally produced by the pituitary gland.

Uses

Thyrogen is primarily used in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer. It is administered to patients who have had their thyroid glands removed due to cancer, and it helps doctors to detect any remaining cancer cells in the body. It is also used to prepare patients for radioactive iodine treatment, which is a common therapy for thyroid cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Thyrogen works by stimulating the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormone. This increase in thyroid hormone levels allows doctors to better detect any remaining thyroid cancer cells in the body. It also helps to prepare the body for radioactive iodine treatment by increasing the uptake of the radioactive iodine by the thyroid cells.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Thyrogen can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, headache, fatigue, and dizziness. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as allergic reactions and heart problems.

Contraindications

Thyrogen should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to thyrotropin alfa or any of the other ingredients in the medication. It should also be used with caution in patients with a history of heart disease.

See Also

• Thyroid cancer
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone
• Radioactive iodine therapy