Propylthiouracil

Pronounced pro-pil-thy-o-YOOR-ah-sil

Brand names: PTU

Type: Antithyroid medicine · All Hormone & Endocrine Medicines

What Propylthiouracil is used for

• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
• Graves disease, including early in pregnancy
• Thyroid storm (hospital)

Common side effects

• Rash
• Nausea
• Joint pain
• Changes in taste

Important cautions

• Can cause severe, sometimes fatal, liver injury — report yellowing of the skin, dark urine, or severe tiredness promptly
• Rarely, it can sharply lower white blood cells — fever or sore throat needs urgent medical review

How it comes

Tablets. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.

Toxicity lists: Propylthiouracil also appears on Medicines That Can Harm the Liver.

Condition guides on MedicalVideos.com

• Pregnancy — videos, articles and guides · medicines for pregnancy