What should be avoided during a thyroid crisis to prevent complications?

During a thyroid crisis, also known as thyroid storm, the use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), commonly referred to as aspirin, should be avoided due to its potential effects on thyroid hormone levels and the risk of exacerbating the crisis. Aspirin can displace thyroid hormones from their binding proteins, which can lead to increased levels of free hormones in the bloodstream. This can worsen the hypermetabolic state associated with a thyroid storm, potentially leading to severe complications such as arrhythmias or cardiovascular collapse.

In contrast, other options such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen do not have the same impact on thyroid hormones and are generally considered safe for use to manage fever or pain in these patients. Scheduled medications, if they are not interfering with thyroid hormone binding or causing adverse reactions, may continue to be administered as prescribed for managing the acute situation.