Propylthiouracil

Molecule Description

Propylthiouracil is an anti-thyroid medicine used in the treatment of hyperthyr

oidism (excess thyroid hormone production).

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Propylthiouracil

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

Contraindications of Propylthiouracil

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 of Propylthiouracil

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 of Propylthiouracil

Pregnancy

Can I take Propylthiouracil during 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

Can I take Propylthiouracil while breastfeeding?

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

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Propylthiouracil?

This medicine does not affect driving ability.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Propylthiouracil?

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 of Propylthiouracil

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 of Propylthiouracil

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 of Propylthiouracil

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 medici...

Missed a Dose

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

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD CCEBDM Diabetology

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Inform the doctor about your detailed medical and surgical history
Inform your physician if you have any of the following conditions-
Liver disease (regular monitoring needed if you start the medication)
Heart disease
Weak immune system
If you are pregnant, lactating or planning a pregnancy
Also, 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.

References

Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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