MedicinePOMEssential

Propylthiouracil

A tablet that reduces thyroid hormone in overactive thyroid (Graves' disease).

Clinical information

Common uses

hyperthyroidism when methimazole is unsuitable
preparing for thyroid surgery or radioiodine treatment

Common side effects

skin rash and itching
feeling sick or vomiting
joint pain
headache
drowsiness

Cautions

can cause severe liver injury, sometimes fatal
can dangerously lower blood cell counts (agranulocytosis)
crosses the placenta — can affect the baby's thyroid

Interactions

warfarin and other oral anticoagulants — effect may increase
beta blockers — dose may need reducing
digoxin — levels may rise as thyroid normalises
theophylline — dose may need reducing

Pregnancy: only if prescribed — rare risk of liver damage; specialist care

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, propylthiouracil label, setid 804fa92a-a5ba-4be0-aa44-a40a2e89fde6 (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations1

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Propylthiouracil	Tablet	50 mg	—	POM