Description
Indications
Methimazole is prescribed for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, a medical condition characterized by the overproduction of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. It is also administered prior to thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine therapy. The medication functions by inhibiting the thyroid gland’s production of excessive thyroid hormone.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally with or without food, usually 1 to 3 times per day.
The dosage of this medication is determined by your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. For children, the dosage is based on their weight.
Take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or take it more frequently than recommended. Taking a higher dose or taking it more often than prescribed will not improve your condition faster but may increase your risk of side effects.
To obtain the maximum benefit of this medication, use it regularly. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time(s) every day. Do not discontinue taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor if your medical condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- skin rash
- itching
- abnormal hair loss
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- loss of taste
- abnormal sensations (tingling, prickling, burning, tightness, and pulling)
- swelling
- joint and muscle pain
- drowsiness
- dizziness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- sore throat
- fever
- headache
- chills
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- right-sided abdominal pain with decreased appetite
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- skin eruptions
Caution
Inform your physician or pharmacist of any allergies you may have before taking methimazole. This product may contain inactive constituents, which can instigate allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your physician or pharmacist, particularly any blood disorders (such as agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia), liver disease, or pancreatitis.
The use of this medication is not advisable during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Your physician may direct you to use an alternative medication during this period. This medication should only be used during the last 6 months of pregnancy if it is unequivocally necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of taking this medication with your physician. If you are planning to conceive, have become pregnant, or suspect that you are pregnant, please contact your physician immediately.
This medication transfers into breast milk. Seek the advice of your physician before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Tapazole is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Tapazole tablet:
- 5mg
FAQ
Can I drink coffee with Tapazole?
In studies, coffee reduced the body’s absorption of thyroid medications by about 30%. Experts recommend that you wait at least 60 minutes between drinking coffee and taking thyroid medication.
How quickly does Tapazole work?
Tapazole typically takes 1-3 weeks before significant improvement of clinical symptoms are seen.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/hypothyroidism/8-things-that-can-mess-with-your-thyroid-medication
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/tapazole
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7250/tapazole-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682464.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/tapazole.html