Study for Optimal Dose Determination of Levothyroxine in Subclinical Hypothyroid Pregnant Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy is associated with early pregnancy loss, preterm birth, abruptio placentae, and postpartum thyroiditis. The aim of this study was to analyze the optimal dose of st nd rd Levothyroxine given during 1 , 2 , and 3 trimester in pregnant women with subclinical hypothyroidism and to analyze whether there is significant change in dose of Levothyroxine when patients shift from one trimester to another. Methodology: It was a prospective and observational study conducted among 90 subclinical hypothyroid pregnant women. Thyroid tests were repeated in each trimester in order to adjust Levothyroxine dosage. Paired t test was used for analysis of two groups of dependent quantitative data. Results: This study showed that there was a significant increase in the mean dose of Levothyroxine required in the third trimester (65±16.639 μg) as compared to the first trimester (40.18±16.38 μg). There was also a significant difference in the mean dose of Levothyroxine required in the second trimester (44±20.761 μg) as compared to first trimester (40.18±16.38 μg). Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroid patients can be treated with low dose thyroxine without any associated side effects.

Keywords

• Hypothyroidism, Pregnancy,Thyroxine