A comment was voiced concerning the use of Propylthiouracil(PTU) and
methimazole(Tapazol) in hyperthyroid patients. I know that the AAP
considers both to be safe for breastfeeding infants. However, if one
reviews the literature, we generally find that methimazole levels in
breastmilk(M:P ratio = > 1.0) are considerably higher than
propylthiouracil(M:P ratio = 0.1 ). Although they might not be detremental
to most infants, I think it would be safer to use PTU. Its just as
effective as methimazole, and in breastfeeding situations is probably
preferred.
tom hale