In the management of Grave's disease, which medication is not typically recommended for pregnant patients?

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In the management of Grave's disease during pregnancy, radioactive iodine is not typically recommended for pregnant patients because it can cross the placenta and potentially harm the developing fetus. Specifically, it may lead to fetal thyroid dysfunction or hypothyroidism, which could have serious repercussions on the baby's development.

On the other hand, propranolol, propylthiouracil, and levothyroxine are considered safer alternatives for managing hyperthyroidism in pregnant patients. Propranolol can be used to manage symptoms like tachycardia and anxiety associated with hyperthyroidism. Propylthiouracil is often preferred in the first trimester for controlling thyroid hormone levels due to its lower risk of teratogenic effects compared to methimazole. Levothyroxine is used to maintain thyroid hormone levels in cases where hypothyroidism is present, ensuring that both the mother and fetus have adequate thyroid hormone for proper growth and development.

Therefore, radioactive iodine is contraindicated in pregnancy for these relevant safety concerns, making it the correct choice not to recommend in this context.

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