Question

A client has myxedema, which results from a deficiency of thyroid hormone synthesis in adults. The nurse knows that which medication should be contraindicated for this client?

A) Levothyroxine
B) Methimazole
C) Propylthiouracil
D) Liothyronine

Answer 1

Methimazole is contraindicated for a client with myxedema because it would further decrease the already low levels of thyroid hormones characteristic of hypothyroidism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Myxedema in adults results from a deficiency of thyroid hormone synthesis and is a form of hypothyroidism. Medications like levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3) are used to replace the missing thyroid hormones. However, drugs such as methimazole and propylthiouracil are antithyroid medications that inhibit the synthesis of thyroid hormones. These would be contraindicated in someone with hypothyroidism like myxedema because they would further reduce the already deficient levels of thyroid hormones. Therefore, the medication that should be contraindicated for a client with myxedema is Methimazole, as it would exacerbate the condition.