A review of the application of levothyroxine in special populations (pregnancy, the elderly)

Levothyroxine, as a synthetic thyroid hormone, is the first choice for the treatment of hypothyroidism. In special populations, such as pregnant women and the elderly, there are significant differences in the demand and metabolic characteristics of thyroid hormones, which puts higher requirements on the dose adjustment and efficacy monitoring of Levothyroxine. The normal maintenance of thyroid function during pregnancy is crucial for fetal development. Lack of sufficient thyroid hormone may lead to intellectual development disorders and other complications in the fetus. The elderly population is often accompanied by a variety of chronic diseases, drug metabolism is slowed down, and medication safety and dose individualization become the focus of treatment. This article reviews the current status of clinical application, dose adjustment principles and related precautions of Levothyroxine in these two special populations, aiming to help medical staff guide treatment more scientifically and rationally and improve the quality of life of patients.