What is the main treatment for congenital hypothyroidism in infants?

Levothyroxine is the primary treatment for congenital hypothyroidism in infants. This condition arises when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which are crucial for normal growth and development. Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), effectively replaces the missing hormone and helps achieve normal thyroid hormone levels.

Initiating treatment with levothyroxine as soon as possible is essential because it can significantly minimize the risk of developmental delays and optimize cognitive functioning in affected infants. This medication is usually given in liquid form to infants, making it easy to administer.

The other options provided are not suitable for treating congenital hypothyroidism. For instance, propylthiouracil is used to manage hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. Sodium iodide is typically used for different conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or as a diagnostic tool in imaging studies, rather than for hormone replacement therapy. Liothyronine is a synthetic form of triiodothyronine (T3) and is generally not the first-line treatment for congenital hypothyroidism, where levothyroxine (T4) is preferred for its longer half-life and effectiveness in establishing stable thyroid hormone levels.