Endocrinology & Diabetes

Hyperthyroidism / Graves Disease

Methimazole therapy, radioactive iodine (I-131), and thyroidectomy options.

Treatment Options

Recommended Centers

$1,000

Starting From

7-21 days

Typical Wait

Treatment Plans for Hyperthyroidism / Graves Disease

Compare evidence-based options at top Chinese hospitals — transparent pricing, typical wait, and recovery time.

Flagship Plan

Radioactive Iodine (I-131) Therapy

Single oral dose with quarantine period.

Wait Time

7-14 days

Hospital Stay

1 dose + 2 weeks isolation

Recovery

2-3 months

Estimated Price

Approx. $1,500

View Detailed Introduction — Procedure, Price Comparison & More

Price Comparison: China vs. USA

🇨🇳 China

$1,000

🇺🇸 USA

$6,250+

Save up to $5,250 per treatment

Procedure Steps

Pre-op: TSH/T4/T3 + TRAb + thyroid US + I-131 uptake scan

Anti-thyroid drugs discontinued 1 week pre-treatment

Dose calculation based on gland size and uptake (10-30 mCi typically)

Oral I-131 administration in hospital isolation ward

Radiation precautions × 3-7 days (avoid pregnant women, young children)

Beta-blocker continuation for symptom control

Follow-up TFTs: 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months

Hypothyroidism develops 2-6 months → lifelong levothyroxine

What is I-131 for Graves' Disease?

Radioactive iodine is selectively taken up by thyroid cells, delivering targeted internal radiation that reduces thyroid function. A single oral dose permanently treats hyperthyroidism in most patients — the most effective definitive treatment for Graves' disease.

Why China?

Cost: $800-$1,800 vs. $2,500-$6,000 in the US
High nuclear medicine volume: China is the world's largest producer of I-131
Comprehensive endocrine support: Integrated pre/post treatment care
Short isolation period: Outpatient or 1-2 day stay

Who is a candidate?

Graves' disease (preferred over surgery in most adults)
Toxic multinodular goiter or toxic adenoma
Relapsed hyperthyroidism after anti-thyroid drugs
Contraindications: pregnancy, breastfeeding, active thyroid eye disease

Outcomes

Cure of hyperthyroidism: 80-90% single dose, >95% with second dose if needed. Hypothyroidism development: 60-80% within 1 year (expected — manageable with levothyroxine). Thyroid eye disease worsening: 15% (can be mitigated with prednisone prophylaxis).

Book Free Consultation WhatsApp

Prices are indicative ranges in USD based on partner hospital published rates. Final quote depends on your medical records and selected hospital — request a free personalized estimate.