Which medication is the first choice for treating hyperthyroidism in the second and third trimester of pregnancy?

Which medication is the first choice for treating hyperthyroidism in the second and third trimester of pregnancy?

• A. Methimazole
• B. Levothyroxine
• C. Propylthiouracil
• D. Thyroxine

Answer: (A)

In the context of managing hyperthyroidism during pregnancy, methimazole is typically avoided during the first trimester due to potential teratogenic effects. However, during the second and third trimesters, it becomes a preferred option because it is more effective than propylthiouracil (PTU) at controlling hyperthyroidism. While PTU is the recommended medication during the first trimester due to its safer profile in early pregnancy, it poses a risk of liver injury and may not be as effective as methimazole in controlling hyperthyroidism later in pregnancy. Therefore, after the first trimester, switching to methimazole is often considered best practice for better disease management while balancing maternal and fetal safety. Levothyroxine and thyroxine, on the other hand, are thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. Thus, they are not relevant medications for treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy. In summary, methimazole is the first-choice medication for treating hyperthyroidism in the second and third trimesters due to its efficacy and the reduced risk of complications compared to other options.

In the context of managing hyperthyroidism during pregnancy, methimazole is typically avoided during the first trimester due to potential teratogenic effects. However, during the second and third trimesters, it becomes a preferred option because it is more effective than propylthiouracil (PTU) at controlling hyperthyroidism.

While PTU is the recommended medication during the first trimester due to its safer profile in early pregnancy, it poses a risk of liver injury and may not be as effective as methimazole in controlling hyperthyroidism later in pregnancy. Therefore, after the first trimester, switching to methimazole is often considered best practice for better disease management while balancing maternal and fetal safety.

Levothyroxine and thyroxine, on the other hand, are thyroid hormones used to treat hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. Thus, they are not relevant medications for treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy.

In summary, methimazole is the first-choice medication for treating hyperthyroidism in the second and third trimesters due to its efficacy and the reduced risk of complications compared to other options.