Propylthiouracil, PTU tablets

What are propylthiouracil tablets?

PROPYLTHIOURACIL (PTU) prevents the thyroid gland from producing too much thyroid hormone. Propylthiouracil is used to treat a condition known as hyperthyroidism (over-active thyroid). Generic propylthiouracil tablets are available.

What should my health care professional know before I take propylthiouracil?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• blood disorder

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to propylthiouracil, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take propylthiouracil tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with propylthiouracil?

• amiodarone

• digoxin

• potassium iodide

• sodium iodide

• theophylline

• thyroid hormones

• warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking propylthiouracil?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress, and to make sure your body is producing the right amount of thyroid hormone.

If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking propylthiouracil.

Propylthiouracil, like other antithyroid agents, has the potential to reduce your resistance to infection. Contact your prescriber or health care professional if you have any infection or injury. Do not have any vaccinations without your prescriber's approval.

What side effects may I notice from taking propylthiouracil?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• backache

• black, tarry stools

• decrease in the amount of urine passed

• fever, sore throat, hoarseness

• goiter (enlarged thyroid gland causing swelling in the throat)

• menstrual changes

• mouth sores

• numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

• severe redness or itching of the skin

• stomach pain

• swelling of the feet or legs

• unusual bleeding or bruising, red spots on the skin

• unusual or sudden weight gain

• unusual tiredness or weakness

• yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• fever

• muscle aches and pains

• nausea, vomiting

• skin rashes, itching

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.