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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Propylthiouracil

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Propylthiouracil

  • Propylthiouracil is used to control an overactive thyroid.
  • You will need to have regular blood tests to make sure that the dose you are taking is right for you.
  • If you develop a sore throat or any unusual bruising or bleeding, you must let your doctor know straight away.

About propylthiouracil

Type of medicineAntithyroid agent
Used forHyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Available asTablets

An overactive thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone which causes a condition known as hyperthyroidism.

This can lead to symptoms such as fast or irregular heartbeat, sweating, mood swings, shaking, weight change, weakness, tiredness, intolerance of hot temperatures, and menstrual problems.

Propylthiouracil is given to correct this hormone imbalance and works by reducing the production of thyroid hormones.

Before taking propylthiouracil

Before taking propylthiouracil make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take propylthiouracil

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. You may be told to take a higher dose to start, then to reduce your dose as your thyroid levels become normal, but your doctor will work out the best dose for you.
  • Propylthiouracil should be taken with a glass of water.
  • Try to get into the habit of taking this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember but, if it is almost time to take the next dose, wait until then and then carry on as before.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored. The dose that you are taking may need to be adjusted to suit your individual needs.
  • Your doctor may also want you to undergo regular blood tests to keep a check on your condition.
  • Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking propylthiouracil.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can propylthiouracil cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick, stomach upsetEat little and often. Stick to simple foods
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller
Changes in taste, tiredness, mild skin rash and itching, and muscle pain or stiffnessDiscuss these with your doctor if they become troublesome

Important: If you develop a sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, mouth ulcers, a fever or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), you must speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store propylthiouracil

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Propylthiouracil 50 mg Tablets, Wockhardt UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated July 2008, accessed June 2009.
  • British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009DocID: 3276DocRef: dils2182Last Reviewed: 14 Dec 2009Version: 22
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