Propylthiouracil (PTU)(proe pill thye oh yoor’ a sill)
Propyl-Thyracil (CAN)
PREGNANCY CATEGORY D
Drug Class
Antithyroid drug
Therapeutic Actions
Inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones; partially inhibits the peripheral conversion of T4 to T3, the more potent form of thyroid hormone.
Indications
Hyperthyroidism
Unlabeled use: Reduces mortality associated with alcoholic liver disease
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with allergy to antithyroid drugs, pregnancy (can induce hypothyroidism or cretinism in the fetus; use only if absolutely necessary and when mother has been informed about potential harm to the fetus; if antithyroid drug is needed, this is the drug of choice); hepatic impairment.
Use cautiously with lactation (if antithyroid drug is needed, this is the drug of choice).
Available Forms
Tablets—50 mg, 100 mg (CAN)
Dosages
Administered usually in three equal doses every 8 hr.
Dosages
Adults
Initially, 300 mg/day PO in divided doses every 8 hr, up to 400–900 mg/day in severe cases. For maintenance, 100–150 mg/day in divided doses every 8 hr.
Pediatric patients
Reserve use for children allergic to or intolerant of other therapies.
6 yr and older: 50 mg/day PO with careful titration if needed. Give in divided doses every 8 hr. Monitor TSH and T4 levels carefully.
Pharmacokinetics
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