Clinical Cousins: Propylthiouracil (PTU)

Overview

• Propylthiouracil (PTU)
  • Anti-thyroid agent
  • Used for hyperthyroidism (e.g., Graves' disease)

Mechanism of Action

• Inhibition of Iodine Oxidation
  • Binds and inhibits oxidation of iodine in the thyroid gland
  • Prevents production of T3 and T4 hormones

Contraindications

• Hepatotoxicity Risk
  • Not for patients at high risk for acute liver injury and liver failure
• Pregnancy
  • Category D: Discontinue if possible

Pharmacokinetics

• Half-life
  • Approximately 24 hours

Side Effects

• Hematologic
  • Bone marrow suppression
• Hepatic
  • Hepatitis
  • Severe liver damage potential
• Other
  • Fever
  • Goiter

Important Points

• Decreases Synthesis
  • Reduces synthesis of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3)
  • Commonly tested in clinical settings

Closing

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