Propylthiouracil
Propylthiouracil used in treatment of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland). Propylthiouracil decreases the formation of thyroid hormone from thyroid gland.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Pyrimidine.
It belongs to Thyroid peroxidease inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antithyroid pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 170.2 · pKa: 7.5 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 60 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 900 · Non-proprietary name: Propylthiouracil.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Propylthiouracil has an oral bioavailability is 62.5% (±12.5%).
Distribution: Propylthiouracil has a volume of distribution is 30 litre. plasma protein binding is 80 %.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 1- 3 hr, renal excretion is > 83 %.
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Indications
Propylthiouracil is primarily indicated in conditions like Hyperthyroidism, Thyrotoxicosis.
Contraindications
Propylthiouracil is contraindicated in conditions like Hepatitis, Agranulocytosis, Vasculitis.
Dosage
Propylthiouracil's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0.71 mg/kg | 0.71 mg/kg | Every 8h | PO | Maintenance for 18 Months |
| 2.62 mg/kg | 2.62 mg/kg | Every 8h | PO | Load for 4-8 Weeks |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 1.3 mg/kg | 1.3 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | Dose for Children 5-12 Yrs Age |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Propylthiouracil produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Agranulocytosis, Thrombocytopenia , Aplastic Anemia , Hepatitis , Leucopenia , Vasculitis , LE-like syndrome . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Propylthiouracil are Vomiting, Fever, Epigastric pain, Arthralgia, Pruritus , Pancytopenia .
Propylthiouracil is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Maculopapular rash, Urticaria.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Propylthiouracil may interfere in the diagnosis of Serum Glucose & Serum Uric Acid by the sequential multiple analyser .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.18.8 — Thyroid & antithyroid preparations
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Propylthiouracil in Pakistan: