Propylthyracil (Propylthiouracil)

Do’s

• Before taking propylthiouracil each time you get a refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
• Propylthiouracil is usually taken three times a day (every 8 hours). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• Take propylthiouracil by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Take this medication exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. They may decrease your dose once your condition is controlled. 
• Continue taking propylthiouracil even if you feel well. Do not stop taking it without talking to your healthcare provider.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens while taking propylthiouracil.

Don’ts

• Do not take more or less of this medication or take it more often than prescribed by your healthcare provider. 

Common Side Effects:

• Stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting
• Mild rash or itching
• Headache
• Drowsiness and dizziness
• Swollen glands
• Joint or muscle pain
• Decreased sense of taste
• Hair loss

Serious Side Effects:

• Signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever)
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Unusual tiredness
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
• Swelling in hands or feet
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Upper stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, itching, tiredness, dark urine, clay-colored stools

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Propylthiouracil can cause serious or fatal liver problems. Stop taking this medication and call your healthcare provider right away if you experience symptoms of liver problems.

You should not use propylthiouracil if you are allergic to it. Inform your healthcare provider if you have ever had liver problems. In very rare cases, propylthiouracil has caused liver failure and death in pregnant women during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding

Patients should be instructed to report any symptoms of hepatic dysfunction, particularly in the first six months of therapy. When these symptoms occur, measurements should be made of liver function and hepatocellular integrity. 

Follow all warnings and precautions provided by your healthcare provider and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about the use of propylthiouracil.