Postpartum thyroiditis is best managed with which treatment?

• A. Oral beta-blockers
• B. Methimazole
• C. Levothyroxine
• D. Radioactive iodine

Answer: (A)

Postpartum thyroiditis often has a brief hyperthyroid phase due to leakage of thyroid hormone from an inflamed gland after pregnancy. The main goal is to relieve symptoms while the condition typically resolves on its own. A beta-blocker like propranolol blocks the adrenergic effects of excess thyroid hormone (tachycardia, tremor, anxiety, palpitations) without altering thyroid hormone production, making it the best option for symptomatic management in this phase. Antithyroid drugs (like methimazole) reduce hormone synthesis, which isn’t the issue here since the excess hormone is released from the damaged thyroid rather than being overproduced. Radioactive iodine permanently destroys thyroid tissue and is inappropriate in the postpartum period and during lactation. Levothyroxine would be considered if the patient enters a hypothyroid phase with symptoms, not for the transient hyperthyroid phase.