Treatment for childhood hypothyroidism is with

Levothyroxine is used for the treatment of childhood hypothyroidism.In case of congenital hypothyroidism,treatment should be staed immediately after diagnosis.The initiation dose is 10-15 microgram/kg/day.T4 & TSH are expected to normalise over one week and one month,respectively,with this treatment.Lifelong thyroid replacement is required for most cases. In acquired hypothyroidism,treatment should be gradual.A dose of 100 microgram/m2/day is recommended.Levothyroxine should be given empty stomach in the morning.Followup should be done every 3 months during the first 2 years of therapy and six monthly thereafter.Most children require lifelong therapy. Reference:Essential pediatrics-Ghai,8th edition,page no:517,518.