Description
Indications
Propylthiouracil tablets are a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of individuals diagnosed with Graves’ disease with hyperthyroidism or toxic multinodular goiter. Propylthiouracil tablets are utilized in the following circumstances:
- In cases where other antithyroid medications have been ineffective.
- When thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine therapy is not a viable treatment option.
- To alleviate hyperthyroidism symptoms in anticipation of a thyroidectomy (surgical removal of the thyroid gland) or radioactive iodine therapy.
Uses and Dosage
Before taking propylthiouracil, carefully read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any queries or concerns, seek guidance from your healthcare provider.
This medication should be taken orally, with or without food, as per the directions of your doctor, usually three times a day, every eight hours. The dose of this medication is based on your medical condition and your body’s response to treatment.
Take propylthiouracil exactly as directed. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or take it more frequently than advised. Taking more medication than prescribed will not help you recover quickly and may increase the likelihood of side effects.
To obtain the maximum benefits of this medication, it should be used regularly at the same time every day. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
Inform your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve or worsen during treatment with propylthiouracil.
Side Effects
Before taking Propylthiouracil, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist, and in case of any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Allergic Reactions
Emergency medical help is required if you experience signs of an allergic reaction or a severe skin reaction, including:
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling in your face or throat
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Burning eyes
- Skin pain
- Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling
Severe Side Effects
Propylthiouracil may cause liver damage, especially during the first 6 months of treatment. Call your doctor immediately if you experience the following signs of liver damage:
- Nausea, vomiting, or upper stomach pain
- Itching
- Fever or tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Dark urine or clay-colored stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, or feeling light-headed
- Unusual bleeding
- Purple or red discoloration of your skin
- Skin rash, skin pain or swelling
- Pink or dark urine, foamy urine, little or no urination
- Shortness of breath or coughing up blood
- New or worsening symptoms of lupus, including joint pain and a skin rash on your cheeks or arms that worsens in sunlight
Common Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Itching or tingling, nerve pain
- Joint or muscle pain
- Swollen glands
- Headache, drowsiness, or dizziness
- Swelling in your hands or feet
- Decreased sense of taste
- Hair loss
Remember to take the medication regularly and at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. If your condition does not improve or worsens, consult your doctor.
Caution
Before taking propylthiouracil, inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could lead to allergic reactions or other adverse effects. Consult your pharmacist for more information.
Prior to initiating treatment with propylthiouracil, you should disclose your medical history to your healthcare provider, particularly if you have blood disorders, such as agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia, or liver disease.
Inform your healthcare provider about all the products you are using, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, before undergoing any surgical or dental procedure.
This medication is not recommended to use during the last six months of pregnancy. However, propylthiouracil can be used during the first three months of pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant.
Propylthiouracil can pass into breast milk, so you should consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using this medication.