What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Propylthiouracil?

Propylthiouracil

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Molecule Description

Propylthiouracil is an anti-thyroid medicine used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone production).

Uses

Hyperthyroidism
Graves’ disease
Toxic goiter
Before thyroid surgery or treatment with radioactive iodine

Contraindications

When should one not use Propylthiouracil

Allergy to this medicine
Lactose intolerance
Liver disease
Weak immune system
Children less than six years of age

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Sore throat
Rashes
Headache
Mouth ulcers
Unusual bleeding
Nausea, vomiting
Stomach pain
Jaundice
Drowsiness
Fever
Little urination
Low WBCs – sudden weakness, fever, chills, mouth sore, trouble in swallowing
Sudden chest pain, wheezing, dry cough
Signs of an underactive thyroid – dry skin, joint stiffness, muscle pain, hoarse voice, weight gain, tiredness

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Propylthiouracil is not considered safe during pregnancy. You should be given the lowest effective dose if felt necessary by your doctor and your thyroid function should be checked regularly.

Breast Feeding

Nursing mothers should not take this medicine. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Driving

This medicine does not affect driving ability.

Alcohol

Patient should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Propylthiouracil.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

This medicine may affect your liver and kidney functions. Your doctor may advise regular blood investigations to check for the normal functioning of other organs
Tell your doctor if:
You are allergic to Propylthiouracil or any of the other ingredients
You have lactose intolerance
You notice any ulcer, sore throat, unspecific illness, unexplained weakness after taking this medicine

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Propylthiouracil prevents the thyroid gland from producing excess hormone by inhibiting an enzyme (peroxidase) responsible for the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Digoxin
Theophylline
Blod pressure medicine – Atenolol, Metoprolol, etc.
Blood thinner – Warfarin etc.
Radio-iodine used to treat an overactive thyroid gland

Interactions with food items

No specific interactions with food have been reported yet.

Dosage

Overdose

The symptoms of overdose can be stomach pain, headache, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, itching, loss of appetite, swelling, etc. Seek emergency medical help if you have taken excess dose of this medicine.

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose, don’t take a double dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Inform the doctor about your detailed medical and surgical historyInform your physician if you have any of the following conditions-Liver disease (regular monitoring needed if you start the medication)Heart diseaseWeak immune systemIf you are pregnant, lactating or planning a pregnancyAlso, the medicine can lower your white blood cells, which can make you easier to catch an infection. So avoid being close to people who are unwell when you are taking the medicine.