Can levothyroxine be used during pregnancy?

Levothyroxine can indeed be used during pregnancy, and it is considered safe for both the mother and the developing fetus. Proper management of hypothyroidism is crucial during pregnancy, as untreated hypothyroidism can lead to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues for the baby. Since levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), it functions similarly to the naturally occurring hormone and does not pose a risk of teratogenic effects.

It is important for women who are planning to become pregnant or who are pregnant to have their thyroid hormone levels monitored closely. Dosing may need to be adjusted during pregnancy to ensure that the mother maintains optimal thyroid hormone levels, as changes in hormone levels and increased metabolic needs can occur.

Ensuring that pregnant patients with hypothyroidism are treated appropriately with levothyroxine helps in promoting a healthy pregnancy outcome and fetal development. Thus, the use of levothyroxine during pregnancy is not only permissible but also often necessary for managing hypothyroidism effectively.