What Is Propylthiouracil?
Propylthiouracil (
PTU) is a prescription antithyroid medication used to treat an
overactive thyroid (known medically as
hyperthyroidism). Because of the risk of serious liver problems, it is usually reserved only for use in people who are allergic to or cannot tolerate
methimazole (
Tapazole®), a safer antithyroid medication, or for women in the
first trimester of pregnancy.
Who Makes Propylthiouracil?
Generic versions of this medication are made by West-Ward Pharmaceutical Corp., and Actavis. There are no brand-name propylthiouracil products available in the United States.
Propylthiouracil works by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones in the thyroid. This medicine prevents the oxidation of iodine, an important step in the production of thyroid hormones. It also blocks the conversion of the less active form of thyroid hormone to the more active form.
When and How to Take Propylthiouracil
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking this medication include the following:
- Propylthiouracil comes in tablet form. It is usually taken three times daily.
- You can take it with or without food.
- For the medicine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
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