What are potential side effects of PTU?

What are potential side effects of PTU?

• A. Decreased WBCs/platelets
• B. Kidney stones
• C. Hair loss
• D. Liver damage

Answer: (D)

Propylthiouracil carries a notable risk of serious liver injury. This hepatotoxic potential is a well-recognized adverse effect that can progress to liver failure, making it a major safety concern and the strongest reason to discontinue the drug if liver function worsens or jaundice appears. Because of this, monitoring liver enzymes and watching for symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, or right upper quadrant pain is essential when using PTU. Other options aren’t as characteristic. Decreased white blood cells or platelets (agranulocytosis/thrombocytopenia) can occur with thionamides but is less common and not as uniquely tied to PTU as liver toxicity. Kidney stones and hair loss are not typical adverse effects of PTU.

Propylthiouracil carries a notable risk of serious liver injury. This hepatotoxic potential is a well-recognized adverse effect that can progress to liver failure, making it a major safety concern and the strongest reason to discontinue the drug if liver function worsens or jaundice appears. Because of this, monitoring liver enzymes and watching for symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, or right upper quadrant pain is essential when using PTU.

Other options aren’t as characteristic. Decreased white blood cells or platelets (agranulocytosis/thrombocytopenia) can occur with thionamides but is less common and not as uniquely tied to PTU as liver toxicity. Kidney stones and hair loss are not typical adverse effects of PTU.