Uses of Propylthiouracil

Propylthiouracil is used to treat hyperthyroidism, which occurs due to excess production of thyroxine hormone in affected individuals. It is also used to treat Grave’s disease, thyrotoxic crisis, and thyrotoxicosis which are conditions that occur when thyroid hormone is produced extremely high in affected individuals. Also lowers very high levels of thyroid hormone in patients scheduled for surgery, and/or radioactive iodine treatment.

Therapeutic Category

Propylthiouracil: Antithyroid agents  

How Propylthiouracil works

Propylthiouracil works by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormone in the thyroid gland which results in low thyroxine hormone level in the body thus treating hyperthyroidism and its associated symptoms in affected individuals. 

Common side effects of Propylthiouracil

• Stomach upset
• Rash 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• In case of accidental overdose or poisoning
• Signs of liver disease such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, yellow discolorations of skin/eyes, dark urine, pale stools, bleeding easily, itching, and/or chills
• Signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, rashes, and/or ulcers in mouth/throat
• Fever, joint swelling, pain, muscle aches, blood in urine, shortness of breath, and/or rash

Health Tips for Propylthiouracil

• Propylthiouracil should be used with caution during pregnancy and in women planning for pregnancy only if it is clearly necessary. Consult your doctor before taking the medicine
• Propylthiouracil should be used with caution in breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor before taking the medicine