Which medication is used to treat hyperthyroidism?

Methimazole is the medication used to treat hyperthyroidism. It functions as a thioamide, inhibiting the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which plays a crucial role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. By reducing the production of these hormones, methimazole effectively lowers elevated thyroid hormone levels associated with hyperthyroidism, helping to alleviate symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and heat intolerance.

Other options are not appropriate for treating hyperthyroidism. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism, making it counterproductive in cases of hyperthyroidism. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, is typically used for inflammatory conditions and does not address the underlining issues of thyroid hormone regulation. Insulin is a hormone involved in glucose metabolism and diabetes management, and it has no role in thyroid hormone levels. This makes methimazole the correct choice for the treatment of hyperthyroidism.