NeuroKare in pregnancy and when breastfeeding
Iodine is essential for normal brain development. It is particularly important that pregnant women and young children have adequate intakes to avoid deficiency which has been associated with reduced hearing capacity, motor and cognitive function and in very severe cases stunted growth and mental retardation.
Since 1 July 2010, the Ministry of Health and PHARMAC have made a 150 microgram (mcg) iodine tablet (NeuroKare) available for pregnant and breastfeeding women to augment their iodine intake. It can be bought over the counter or supplied on prescription. This iodine tablet is intended for use from the confirmation of pregnancy until breastfeeding is discontinued.
Please visit http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/nutrition-iodine(external link) for more information, including patient resources.
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