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Thyroid Medications (cont.)

Anti-thyroid Medications

These medicines are used to treat an overactive thyroid gland by decreasing the output of thyroid hormone from the thyroid.

Propylthiouracil (also called PTU)

  • PTU blocks the production of thyroid hormone inside the thyroid gland

  • PTU is usually given in divided doses, 2 to 3 times a day

  • Blood levels of thyroid hormone do not drop until the stores of thyroid hormone in the thyroid are depleted, typically after 2-4 weeks

  • Thyroid hormone levels may take 1 to 4 months to normalize

  • Mild side effects include rash, low grade fevers, and itchiness

  • Rare but serious side effects include a reduction in white blood cells, which can prevent the body from fighting off an infection, and hepatitis (liver damage)

Methimazole (Tapazole)

  • Similar mechanism and delay of action as PTU

  • Tapazole can be taken once each day

  • Tapazole has similar side effects to PTU

Blood levels of thyroid hormones should be checked every 4 to 6 weeks until hormone levels stabilize



Next: Other Medications for Hyperthyroidism »

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