Effects of propylthiouracil: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

  1. Home
  2. Effects of propylthiouracil
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Effects of propylthiouracil: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Effects of propylthiouracil: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies", please consult your doctor.

For NLM copyright information, please see Link to NLM Copyright Page
PubMed data is obtained via Hugging Face Datasets: Link to DatasetPlease check the disclaimer.
This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Propylthiouracil (PTU) is a commonly used drug for treating hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism affects approximately 0.2% to 2.7% of all pregnancies and is generally treated with PTU. 1 PTU has been shown to be effective in treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy, however, its effects on the mother and fetus are controversial. 1

Research using zebrafish found that PTU reduced thyroid hormone levels and increased sex hormone secretion. 16 This suggests that PTU may affect the interaction between endocrine systems by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormone and regulating the secretion of sex hormones. 16

PTU has been used to treat hyperthyroidism for over 50 years. 18 Compared to methimazole, PTU is the only thyrostatic drug approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics for mothers who are breastfeeding. 18 PTU is recommended for treating hyperthyroidism in pregnant women because it has a lower placental transfer rate compared to methimazole, although the effect on the newborn does not appear to be different from that of methimazole. 18

Research using rats found that hypothyroidism induced by PTU resulted in reduced testicular function, abnormal sperm, and decreased fertility. 9 Hypothyroidism caused by PTU lowered blood levels of testosterone, LH, and FSH, and increased blood levels of prolactin and cholesterol. 9

PTU may affect fetal development. 3 Research suggests that PTU may lead to fewer birth defects in newborns compared to methimazole and carbimazole. 3

PTU may affect brain development in rats. 8 Hypothyroidism caused by PTU altered dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain of rats. 7

PTU was shown to decrease antioxidant enzyme activity in rat hearts and increase lipid peroxidation. 25 These findings suggest that PTU may cause oxidative stress in the heart. 25

PTU may affect undescended testes in newborn rats. 22

PTU did not affect thyroid function in goldfish but it was shown that elevated thyroid hormone levels in goldfish can suppress appetite. 6

PTU has been shown to improve blood lipids in diabetic rats and hypothyroid rats. 14

PTU may cause oxidative stress in rat brain tissue and may impair learning and memory ability. 12

PTU may affect the immune system in rats. 20

PTU has been shown to reduce lipid peroxidation caused by potassium bromate, which can cause thyroid tumors. 24

PTU has been shown to increase the production of pregnenolone in rat granulosa cells. 17

PTU may lead to fewer birth defects in newborns compared to methimazole, when used to treat hyperthyroidism in pregnancy. 11

PTU may be more effective than methimazole in preventing atherosclerosis in patients with Graves' disease. 5

PTU may have a protective effect on thyroid gland tissue in rats. 2

PTU may reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat kidneys. 13

PTU has been shown to reduce lipid peroxidation in thyroid tissue in rats. 15

PTU has been shown to prolong the duration of the P wave in patients with overt hyperthyroidism. 21

PTU has been shown to delay metamorphosis and affect thyroid gland histology in the European common frog. 4

PTU has been shown to inhibit the expression of iodotyrosine deiodinase 1 in thyroid cells. 10

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

PTU may be effective in treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy. 1 PTU is the only thyrostatic drug approved for breastfeeding mothers by the American Academy of Pediatrics. 18 PTU is recommended for treating hyperthyroidism in pregnancy as it has a lower placental transfer rate compared to methimazole. 18 PTU may be more effective in preventing atherosclerosis. 5

Risk Summary

PTU may cause reduced testicular function, abnormal sperm, and decreased fertility. 9 PTU may affect fetal development. 3 PTU may affect brain development in rats. 8 PTU may cause oxidative stress in the heart. 25 PTU may affect the immune system. 20 PTU has been shown to delay metamorphosis and affect thyroid gland histology in the European common frog. 4

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities

Many studies show that PTU inhibits the production of thyroid hormone. 16 18 9 3 8 25 22 6 14 12 20 24 17 11 5 2 13 15 21 4 10 Also, many studies have shown that PTU may have adverse effects on the mother and fetus. 1 16 9 3 8 25 22 12 20 4

Differences

There is no consensus on whether PTU is effective in treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy. 1 There is also no consensus on the effects of PTU on birth defects in newborns. 3 11 There is also no consensus on the effects of PTU on brain development in rats. 8 7

Consistency and Inconsistencies of Results

More research is needed on the safety and effectiveness of PTU. 1 There is no consensus on the effects of PTU on the mother and fetus. 1 3 11

Notes on Real-World Applications

While PTU may be effective in treating hyperthyroidism during pregnancy, the potential effects on the mother and fetus should be considered. 1 PTU is the only thyrostatic drug approved for breastfeeding mothers but the effects on the newborn should be considered. 18 PTU may be more effective in preventing atherosclerosis, however, more research is needed. 5

Limitations of Current Research

There is still not enough research on the safety and effectiveness of PTU. 1 Research design and sample size are important when assessing the effects of PTU on the mother and fetus. 1 3 11

Future Research Directions

Long-term effects need to be investigated when assessing the safety and effectiveness of PTU. 1 Also, the effects of PTU on the mother and fetus need to be investigated in detail. 1 3 11

Conclusion

PTU is an effective drug for treating hyperthyroidism but the potential effects on the mother and fetus should be considered. 1 It is important to consult with your doctor and carefully consider the use of PTU. 1

Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
16
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
7
Article Type
2
2
0
2
25
1.

Efficacy of propylthiouracil in the treatment of pregnancy with hyperthyroidism and its effect on pregnancy outcomes: A meta-analysis.

Author: MiaoYiqun, XuYang, TengPing, WangAihua, ZhangYuanyuan, ZhouYun, LiuWenwen

Improved pregnancy outcomes
Safe treatment

This meta-analysis found that propylthiouracil (PTU) treatment for hyperthyroidism during pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of congenital anomalies, neonatal hypothyroidism, or hepatotoxicity. The findings support the use of PTU during pregnancy with hyperthyroidism to improve clinical pregnancy outcomes in patients with thyroid dysfunction.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

3.

Effects of Methimazole vs Propylthiouracil in Newborns: A Comparative Review.

Author: BhagatMehak, SinghPurnima, SunkaraSindhu Meghana, AbrahamMerin T, Barroso AlverdeMaria Jimena, MundlaSravya R, Mizrahi DrijanskiAndrea, JobilalAnna, LakkimsettiMohit, NairNandini, RazzaqWaleed, AbdinZain U, GuptaIshita

Hyperthyroidism treatment
Congenital anomalies

This review explores the potential effects of methimazole and propylthiouracil on newborns, emphasizing the importance of considering the potential risks and benefits of these medications during pregnancy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

The Differential Effects of Propylthiouracil and Methimazole as Graves' Disease Treatment on Vascular Atherosclerosis Markers: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Author: WisnuWismandari, AlwiIdrus, NafrialdiNafrialdi, HarimurtiKuntjoro, PemayunTjokorda Gede D, JusmanSri Widia A, SantosoDewi Irawati S, HarahapAlida R, SuwartoSuhendro, SubektiImam

Improved adhesion molecules

This single-blind randomized clinical trial found that propylthiouracil (PTU) treatment in patients with Graves' disease led to a greater improvement in adhesion molecules than methimazole treatment. However, there were no significant changes in pulse wave velocity or carotid intima media thickness in either group.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Effects of thyroxine and propylthiouracil on feeding behavior and the expression of hypothalamic appetite-regulating peptides and thyroid function in goldfish (Carassius auratus).

Author: DealCole K, VolkoffHelene

This study investigated the effect of altered thyroid state on feeding behavior, food intake, and hypothalamic appetite-regulating peptides in goldfish. Results suggest a weak link between thyroid state and appetite in fish, unlike in mammals.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

CLARITY-BPA: Bisphenol A or Propylthiouracil on Thyroid Function and Effects in the Developing Male and Female Rat Brain.

Author: BansalRuby, ZoellerR Thomas

Thyroid dysfunction

This study investigated the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) on thyroid function and thyroid hormone action in the developing brain of rats. BPA did not affect serum thyroid hormones or brain endpoints, while propylthiouracil (PTU) significantly affected thyroid function.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

10.

Inhibitory effects of methimazole and propylthiouracil on iodotyrosine deiodinase 1 in thyrocytes.

Author: YoshiharaAya, LuoYuqian, IshidoYuko, UsukuraKensei, OdaKenzaburo, SueMariko, KawashimaAkira, HiroiNaoki, SuzukiKoichi

Graves' disease treatment

Methimazole and propylthiouracil suppress iodotyrosine deiodinase 1 (Dehal1) expression in thyroid cells.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

11.

Effects of methimazole and propylthiouracil exposure during pregnancy on the risk of neonatal congenital malformations: A meta-analysis.

Author: SongRongjing, LinHepu, ChenYue, ZhangXiuying, FengWanyu

PTU exposure
MMI/CMZ exposure

Exposure to MMI/CMZ significantly increased the incidence of neonatal congenital malformations compared to exposure to PTU and no antithyroid drug exposure.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

15.

Comparison of potential protective effects of melatonin and propylthiouracil against lipid peroxidation caused by nitrobenzene in the thyroid gland.

Author: ZasadaKrzysztof, Karbownik-LewinskaMalgorzata

Reduced lipid peroxidation

The study compared the protective effects of melatonin and propylthiouracil (PTU) against lipid peroxidation in porcine thyroid homogenates exposed to nitrobenzene.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

18.

Propylthiouracil: clinical overview of its efficacy and its side effects more than 50 years after the introduction of its use in thyrostatic treatment.

Author: WeisselM

Thyrotoxicosis treatment
Side effects

Propylthiouracil, a thyrostatic drug, is an effective treatment for Graves' disease with advantages over methimazole, particularly for nursing mothers and pregnant women.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

19.

Beneficial effects of propylthiouracil plus L-thyroxine treatment in a patient with a mutation in MCT8.

Author: WémeauJ L, PigeyreM, Proust-LemoineE, d'HerbomezM, GottrandF, JansenJ, VisserT J, LadsousM

Tachycardia reduction
Weight gain
High T3 levels
Psychomotor retardation

High levels of T(3) may have deleterious effects on adipose, hepatic, and cardiac levels. Propylthiouracil plus levothyroxine could be an effective therapy to reduce general adverse features, unfortunately without benefit on the psychomotor retardation.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

20.

Effects of developmental hypothyroidism induced by maternal administration of methimazole or propylthiouracil on the immune system of rats.

Author: NakamuraRyosuke, TeshimaReiko, HachisukaAkiko, SatoYuji, TakagiKayoko, NakamuraRika, WooGye-Hyeong, ShibutaniMakoto, SawadaJun-Ichi

Hyperthyroidism treatment
Immune system modulation

Methimazole and propylthiouracil, antithyroid drugs, exhibited temporal immunomodulatory effects on the developing immune system of rats, with changes in lymphoid cell subpopulations.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

21.

Effects of short-term propylthiouracil treatment on p wave duration and p wave dispersion in patients with overt hypertyroidism.

Author: KatircibasiM T, DenizF, PamukcuB, BiniciS, AtarI

Atrial fibrillation prevention

Hyperthyroidism was associated with prolonged P wave duration and increased P wave dispersion (PWD). Propylthiouracil treatment effectively decreased P wave duration and PWD, bringing them back to normal levels.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

23.

Effects of the antithyroid agent propylthiouracil in a partial life cycle assay with zebrafish.

Author: van der VenLeo T M, van den BrandhofEvert-Jan, VosJosé H, PowerDeborah M, WesterPiet W

Developmental defects

This study examined the effects of the reference compound propylthiouracil (PTU) on zebrafish reproduction, growth and development, histopathology of some target tissues, and plasma thyroid hormone levels.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

24.

Comparison of potential protective effects of melatonin, indole-3-propionic acid, and propylthiouracil against lipid peroxidation caused by potassium bromate in the thyroid gland.

Author: KarbownikMalgorzata, StasiakMagdalena, ZasadaKrzysztof, ZygmuntArkadiusz, LewinskiAndrzej

Reduce lipid peroxidation

This study investigated the protective effects of melatonin, indole-3-propionic acid (IPA), and propylthiouracil (PTU) against lipid peroxidation induced by potassium bromate (KBrO3) in rat thyroids and porcine thyroid homogenates. Both melatonin and IPA reduced lipid peroxidation in vivo, while PTU showed protective effects in vitro. These findings suggest that melatonin and IPA may be valuable agents for protecting against KBrO3-induced oxidative damage.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

25.

Effects of hypothyroidism induced by 6-n-propylthiouracil and its reversal by T3 on rat heart superoxide dismutase, catalase and lipid peroxidation.

Author: ChattopadhyayS, ZaidiG, DasK, ChainyG B N

Improved antioxidant defense

This study shows that thyroid hormone levels affect the heart's ability to protect itself from damage caused by free radicals. Low thyroid levels increased damage, while high levels increased the heart's protective enzymes, suggesting that thyroid hormones play a role in maintaining the heart's health.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.