I’m not at all sure that it is true that the chances for a SECOND remission on the antithyroid drugs are increased, or even the same, if the first attempt was successful. I couldn’t get back to the information site where I picked up actual numbers — for some reason my web search engine will no longer open it. But I am fairly sure that I read it on the Graves’ Home Page, which generally has good information about the disease and the treatment options. The address is:
http://home.pacific.net.sg/~choco/
If I remember correctly, the author of this page gave the chances for remission on antithyroid drugs at about 40% for a FIRST try on the drugs (I’m working from memory here). He/she then stated that the chances for a SECOND remission were significantly lower, and gave the number. I have no idea where the numbers used came from (for the author), or even if your doctor would agree with the statement. So this issue is undoubtedly something that you need to discuss with the doctor, in depth. Obviously, whatever you all decide needs to be based on a realistic appraisal of what the treatment would accomplish.
Good luck,
Bobbi