Propylthiouracil

Propylthiouracil

 Where is Propylthiouracil used?

Propylthiouracil is a prescription used for the treatment of overactive thyroid called hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism can increase the metabolism of your body that causes unintentional weight loss and a rapid irregular heartbeat. This type of condition can mimic other health problems which can make it harder for doctors to diagnose. It may also cause a wide range of signs and symptoms including:

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Pounding of your heart  
  • Anxiety, nervousness, and irritability
  • Pounding of your heart
  • Sweating
  • Tremor
  • Increase sensitivity to heat
  • Changes in menstrual patterns
  • Changes in bowel patterns
  • Muscle weakness or fatigue
  • Skin thinning
  • Difficulty sleeping

This medication is in the class of anti-thyroid agents. This stops the thyroid gland from making too much thyroid hormone. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription in 1947.

How does Propylthiouracil work?

Propylthiouracil lessens the total of thyroid hormones made by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is using iodine as a chemical used in the formation of thyroid hormones. Iodine needs to be changed in the body to a useable form before it may be combined with other components to form thyroid hormones.

This drug works by inhibiting the transfiguration of iodine to its useable form. Propylthiouracil also blocks the combination of converted iodine with other components to form thyroid hormones. This results in a decreased production of thyroid hormones. Propylthiouracil can only lessen the production of thyroid hormones. It can’t decrease the blood levels of previously produced thyroid hormones. These should be used up by the body before the thyroid hormone blood levels start to lessen. This may take 3-4 weeks of treatment.

How is Propylthiouracil taken?

  • You should take the right dose, not more or less.
  • Propylthiouracil is to be taken by mouth usually three times a day every 8 hours or as directed by your doctor.
  • You may take each dose with or without a meal.
  • Swallow the tablet as a whole with a full glass of water.
  • Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse.

What are the possible side effects of Propylthiouracil?

Common side effects:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach upset
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Spinning sensation

Tell your doctor right away if you have these unlikely but serious side effects of Propylthiouracil:

  • Changes in the amount of urine
  • Joint pain
  • Sore throat
  • Chills, fever, or cough
  • Rust-colored, dark, brown, or foamy urine
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing

What are the precautions in taking Propylthiouracil?

  • If you are breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first.
  • This drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Don’t drive or do dangerous activities until you know how this affects you.
  • Tell your doctor if you are allergic to the medicine or if you have any other allergies.
  • Let your doctor know about the drugs you take including vitamins, prescription medicine, and herbal supplements.
  • Do not share this drug with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
  • This is not recommended for use in children under 6 years of age.
  • Use this with caution in people with decreased kidney or liver function.