Propylthiouracil
Molecule Description
Propylthiouracil is an anti-thyroid medicine used in the treatment of hyperthyr
oidism (excess thyroid hormone production).
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
Q:
Can I take Propylthiouracil during pregnancy?
A:
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
Q:
Can I take Propylthiouracil while breastfeeding?
A:
Nursing mothers should not take this medicine. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Propylthiouracil?
A:
This medicine does not affect driving ability.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Propylthiouracil?
A:
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 medicine....
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 (Pharmacology)
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
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