PTU (propylthiouracil) primarily does what to the thyroid?

PTU (propylthiouracil) primarily does what to the thyroid?

• A. Puts thyroid under
• B. Stimulates thyroid hormone production
• C. Increases iodine uptake by the thyroid
• D. Causes permanent hypothyroidism

Answer: (A)

Propylthiouracil works by suppressing thyroid hormone synthesis. It inhibits the thyroid peroxidase enzyme, which is necessary for converting iodide into iodine and attaching it to tyrosine residues, and for coupling these iodotyrosines to form T3 and T4. With these steps blocked, the gland’s production of thyroid hormones falls, effectively reducing thyroid activity. It does not stimulate hormone production, it does not increase iodine uptake, and the hypothyroidism it can cause (if overdose) is not typically permanent.

Propylthiouracil works by suppressing thyroid hormone synthesis. It inhibits the thyroid peroxidase enzyme, which is necessary for converting iodide into iodine and attaching it to tyrosine residues, and for coupling these iodotyrosines to form T3 and T4. With these steps blocked, the gland’s production of thyroid hormones falls, effectively reducing thyroid activity. It does not stimulate hormone production, it does not increase iodine uptake, and the hypothyroidism it can cause (if overdose) is not typically permanent.