Adverse Effects
The most dangerous side-effect is agranulocytosis (1/250, more in PTU); this is an idiosyncratic reaction which generally resolves on cessation of drug. It occurs in about 0.2 to 0.3% of cases treated with antithyroid drugs. Others include granulocytopenia (dose dependent, which improves on cessation of the drug) and aplastic anemia, and for propylthiouracil severe, fulminant liver failure. Patients on these medications should see a doctor if they develop sore throat or fever.
The most common side effects are rash and peripheral neuritis. These drugs also cross the placenta and are secreted in breast milk. Lugol's iodine is used to block hormone synthesis before surgery.
Read more about this topic: Antithyroid Drugs
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