PTU Injuries
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Propylthiouracil (PTU), an anti-thyroid agent, is used to manage hyperthyroidism, a condition caused by overactive thyroid glands. Grave’s disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
Propylthiouracil has been linked to several health risks and injuries, and on June 3, 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning letter, notifying healthcare providers of its more serious side effects including liver failure and death.
PTU and Liver Failure
The FDA warning letter was based on evidence of 32 cases (22 adult and 10 pediatric) of serious liver injury in PTU users. The FDA advises healthcare professionals to carefully consider the effects before prescribing PTU to patients with Grave’s disease and to closely monitor those who are treated with the medication.
Symptoms of PTU Liver Injury
PTU patients should discuss the signs and symptoms of PTU liver failure in full with their doctor so they can seek medical attention of they begin to experience the symptoms. Following are the most common symptoms of liver injury:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Light-colored stools
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
- Dark-colored urine
Liver failure is a serious health risk and in many cases can be fatal. If you or someone you live is taking PTU for Grave’s disease or another condition, it is important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of liver failure and other side effects.
Other PTU Side Effects
Although liver failure is one of the most serious side effects experienced by PTU users, it is not the only. Following are some other health risks associated with PTU use:
- Decreased level of red and white blood cells and platelets which can result in infection, bleeding, anemia and other serious conditions. Symptoms can include: fever, sore throat, coughing, bloody stools, bloody urine and nosebleeds.
- Lower the activity of the immune system which can increase the possibility of infection.
More Common PTU Side Effects Include:
- Hair loss
- Hives
- Itching skin
- Rashes
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Loss of tastes
- Joint and muscle aches
What To Do After A PTU Injury?
If you or a loved one has been prescribed PTU and has suffered an adverse side effect or death, you, of course, should seek immediate medical assistance to prevent further complications. However, it is also important to seek legal help form an experienced PTU attorney who can help you recover compensation to pay for the costly medical expenses and other financial losses associated with your injury.
If your loved one has died from PTU liver failure or another health risks associated with the thyroid medication, you may be eligible to seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, unpaid medical bills and emotional pain and suffering by filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
If You Have Been Injured by PTU
Have you or a loved one been injured after taking PTU? If so, contact us to speak with an experienced PTU attorney who specializes in drug recall litigation & lawsuits. Let us help you win the compensation you need and deserve.
