Products
Propylthiouracil is commercially available in tablet form (Propycil 50). It has been used medicinally since the 1940s.
Structure and properties
Propylthiouracil (C7H10N2OS, Mr = 170.2 g/mol) is a thiourea and an alkylated thiouracil derivative. It exists as a white crystalline powder or as crystals and is sparingly soluble in water. The substance has a bitter taste.
Effects
Propylthiouracil (ATC H03BA02) has thyrostatic properties. It inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland and additionally inhibits the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) in peripheral tissues. The full effect occurs after two to three weeks.
Indications
- For the treatment of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
- For preoperative treatment before subtotal thyroidectomy, before or after radioiodine therapy.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The tablets are usually taken three times a day (every 6 to 8 hours) with a meal.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Agranulocytosis, severe disorders of hematopoiesis.
- Severe hepatic insufficiency
- Thyroid cancer
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include:
- Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, sensory disturbances, nerve inflammation, taste and smell disturbances.
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
- Pigment loss, itching, skin rash, hair loss.
- Muscle and joint pain, arthritis
- Allergic reactions
Very rarely, severe side effects such as agranulocytosis, liver disease (hepatotoxicity), and severe skin disease may occur.