Which condition can both methimazole and propylthiouracil (PTU) cause?

Methimazole and propylthiouracil (PTU) are both thionamide medications that are used to manage hyperthyroidism by inhibiting thyroid hormone synthesis. One of the notable side effects that both medications can induce is transient leukopenia, which is characterized by a temporary decrease in the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood.

This reduction in leukocyte count can occur due to the effect of these medications on bone marrow function or the immune response. Leukopenia, even when transient, can lead to a vulnerability to infections, and while typically the leukocyte count returns to normal upon discontinuation of the medication, it is an important side effect to monitor during treatment.

The other conditions listed do not represent common or well-documented side effects of methimazole and PTU in the same manner. Thyroid storm is a severe exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, which is not a condition caused by these medications. Severe hypothyroidism could occur with overdosing of these medications or improper management, but it isn’t generally a direct side effect of their use. Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition of severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and is not related to these antithyroid drugs