methimercazole (METHIMAZOLE)
What is Methimercazole?
Methimercazole treats hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). An overactive thyroid makes too much thyroid hormone. This medicine is also used before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism. You usually take Methimercazole three times a day with food. It's very important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly on how much to take and when. Never change your dosage without talking to your doctor first. They will determine the right dose for your specific needs. This information is for general knowledge and does not replace advice from your doctor or other healthcare professional.
What is the usual dose of Methimercazole?
Adults start with 15mg daily for mild cases, increasing to 30-40mg for moderate, and 60mg for severe cases. The usual daily range is 5-15mg.
Children's starting dose is calculated based on their weight: 0.4 milligrams (mg) of Methimercazole per kilogram (kg) of body weight, given in three separate doses. For example, a 20kg child would start with 8mg/day (0.4mg/kg 20kg = 8mg). The maintenance dose (the amount needed once the thyroid is under control) is about half the initial dose. A kilogram (kg) is a unit of weight approximately equal to 2.2 pounds.
How do I take Methimercazole?
Methimercazole tablets are usually taken three times a day, about every eight hours, with food. There are no special dietary rules. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one. Methimercazole is a medication.
For how long do I take Methimercazole?
The duration of treatment varies but typically lasts 12–18 months, depending on the severity of hyperthyroidism and response to therapy. Your doctor will regularly assess your thyroid function and adjust the dosage as needed.
What is Methimercazole used for?
Methimercazole is a medication used to treat an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). This condition can be caused by Graves' disease or toxic multinodular goiter. These are thyroid disorders where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. If surgery or radioactive iodine (a type of radiation treatment) aren't suitable options, Methimercazole helps control the overactive thyroid. It also helps to reduce symptoms before surgery or radioactive iodine treatment is done. Essentially, it helps to calm down an overactive thyroid gland.
How long does it take for Methimercazole to start working?
Methimercazole starts reducing thyroid hormone levels within 1–2 weeks, but full effects may take 4–8 weeks. Regular blood tests will monitor your thyroid hormone levels during this period.
Is Methimercazole effective?
Yes, Methimercazole is highly effective in controlling hyperthyroidism. Clinical studies show significant improvement in symptoms and hormone levels in the majority of patients. Its success depends on adherence to the prescribed regimen and regular monitoring.
How does one know if Methimercazole is working?
Methimercazole's effectiveness is tracked by blood tests measuring TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and free T4 (free thyroxine, a thyroid hormone). These ensure the thyroid is functioning normally (euthyroid). Liver health is also checked via blood tests (bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, ALT, and AST – liver enzymes). If ALT or AST levels are more than three times higher than normal, Methimercazole should be stopped. Regular doctor and lab visits are essential for monitoring. Essentially, the medicine's effect on the thyroid and liver is carefully watched to prevent problems.
How does Methimercazole work?
Methimercazole is a medication used to treat an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). It works by stopping your body from making too much thyroid hormone. The medicine is swallowed and absorbed into your body through your gut. Your liver processes it, and it's then removed from your body through your urine. Importantly, Methimercazole doesn't get rid of thyroid hormone that's already in your body; it only prevents your body from making more. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of hormones, leading to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and nervousness. Therefore, Methimercazole helps control these symptoms by reducing the production of these excess hormones.
Who should avoid taking Methimercazole?
Methimercazole is a medication with several important warnings. Don't take it if you're allergic to it. It can harm a developing baby during the first three months of pregnancy, possibly causing birth defects. A very serious side effect is agranulocytosis (a dangerously low white blood cell count), indicated by fever or sore throat. **Report these symptoms to your doctor immediately.** Methimercazole can also damage the liver (hepatotoxicity), so liver function tests may be needed. Rarely, it can cause vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), which can be severe. Keep Methimercazole out of reach of children. Always talk to your doctor about any concerns or side effects.
Can I take Methimercazole with vitamins or supplements?
Methimercazole users should tell their doctor about all other medicines, vitamins, and supplements they're taking. This is because Methimercazole can interact with other substances. The doctor might need to change the Methimercazole dose or watch for any side effects. "Interact" means that one medicine can affect how another works, sometimes making it stronger or weaker, or causing new problems. "Side effects" are unwanted effects of a medicine, like nausea or rash. It's important to be completely honest with your doctor about everything you're taking to ensure your safety and the best treatment outcome.
Can I take Methimercazole with other prescription drugs?
Methimercazole may interact with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), increasing bleeding risk, and beta-blockers, requiring dose adjustments. Always inform your doctor about all medications you take to avoid interactions.
Can Methimercazole be taken safely while pregnant?
Methimercazole use during pregnancy is risky. This medicine crosses the placenta and can harm the developing baby, potentially causing birth defects like skin problems (aplasia cutis), facial abnormalities (craniofacial), digestive system issues (gastrointestinal), and omphalocele (a belly button defect). The baby might also develop a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) or cretinism (severe mental and physical retardation). The risk is greatest in the first three months of pregnancy. Doctors should use the lowest possible dose. Other medicines may be better, especially early in pregnancy. Careful monitoring of the mother's and baby's thyroid function is vital. The doctor might reduce the dose or stop it before the baby is born.
Can Methimercazole be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Methimercazole passes into breast milk, but studies haven't shown any harm to babies who are breastfed while their mothers take it. However, because it's a medication that affects the thyroid (a gland that controls metabolism), a doctor will want to regularly check the baby's thyroid function with blood tests. These checks are typically done weekly or every two weeks to make sure the baby's thyroid is working correctly. This monitoring is a precaution, not an indication that there's necessarily a problem. The frequency of monitoring will depend on the baby's individual situation and doctor's recommendation.
Is Methimercazole safe for the elderly?
Methimercazole can be safely used in elderly patients, but they may require lower doses and close monitoring due to a higher risk of side effects, such as liver dysfunction or blood disorders.
How should I store Methimercazole?
Methimercazole storage instructions: Store Methimercazole at room temperature, away from heat and dampness (like a bathroom). Keep it in its original, tightly sealed container, out of reach of children. Disposal: The best way to dispose of leftover Methimercazole is through a drug take-back program. These programs are often run by pharmacies or local government agencies. Check with your pharmacist or local waste/recycling department to find one near you. If a take-back program isn't available, the FDA website offers safe disposal alternatives. Never flush medicine down the toilet. *Methimercazole:* A medication used to treat certain thyroid conditions.
Does Methimercazole make people tired or drowsy?
Most people tolerate this medicine well and sleepiness or tiredness is not commonly reported. However, everybody can respond differently to medicines. Always track any changes you notice and let your doctor know when new symptoms are concerning - this will help make sure this medicine is right for you.
Does Methimercazole cause stomach upset?
Yes, Methimercazole may cause nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort. Taking it with food or milk can help reduce these symptoms. Contact your doctor if the symptoms are severe or persistent.
Does Methimercazole affect sleep?
Methimercazole can make you sleepy. If you have trouble sleeping while taking it, talk to your doctor. Sleep disturbances means problems with sleeping, such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Your doctor can help determine if the sleepiness is related to the Methimercazole and discuss ways to manage it. They may adjust your dose or suggest other solutions. It's important to tell your doctor about any side effects you experience while taking any medication.
Does Methimercazole make it hard to think or concentrate?
Difficulty concentrating is not a typical side effect of Methimercazole. However, severe hyperthyroidism itself can cause such symptoms, which may improve as the medication normalizes hormone levels.
Does Methimercazole affect mood?
Mood changes like irritability or anxiety may improve as thyroid hormone levels stabilize. If you notice persistent mood swings, consult your doctor for further evaluation.
Does Methimercazole interfere with sexual function?
Most people tolerate this medicine well and sexual side effects are not commonly reported. However, everybody can respond differently to medicines. Always track any changes you notice and let your doctor know when new symptoms are concerning - this will help make sure this medicine is right for you.
Does Methimercazole affect appetite?
Changes in appetite may occur indirectly due to thyroid hormone regulation. Hyperthyroidism often increases appetite, which may normalize as treatment progresses.
Does Methimercazole cause weight gain?
Methimercazole itself does not cause weight gain, but as thyroid levels normalize, previously lost weight from hyperthyroidism may return. This is a normal part of the treatment process.
Does Methimercazole cause headaches?
Methimercazole can cause headaches. If you get a headache while taking Methimercazole, contact your doctor right away. Methimercazole is a medication. A side effect is an unwanted effect that can happen when you take medicine. In this case, a headache is a possible side effect of taking Methimercazole. It's important to tell your doctor about any headaches you experience, as they can determine if it's related to the medication or something else.
Does Methimercazole limit driving?
Methimercazole can make you feel sleepy or dizzy. This means it could be unsafe to drive. If you're taking Methimercazole and feel drowsy or dizzy, don't drive. Wait until these symptoms go away before getting behind the wheel. Always exercise caution when driving while on this medication. Drowsiness means feeling sleepy or tired. Dizziness means feeling unsteady or lightheaded.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Methimercazole?
Alcohol in moderation is generally safe, but excessive drinking may worsen liver function and interact with the medication. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Methimercazole?
Yes, coffee and tea are safe to consume while taking Methimercazole. However, excessive caffeine intake can exacerbate symptoms like irritability or restlessness, especially in hyperthyroid patients.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Methimercazole?
Exercise is safe and beneficial for most patients. However, if you experience fatigue or other symptoms of hyperthyroidism, consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
What are Methimercazole possible harms and risks?
Methimercazole's most common side effect is an upset stomach, easily fixed by taking it with food or milk. Less common, but serious, side effects include problems with blood cell production (leading to low white blood cells, low platelets, or anemia), fever, a lupus-like illness, low blood sugar (possibly causing a coma), liver inflammation (jaundice or yellowing of the skin), inflammation of blood vessels, and low blood clotting factors. Rarely, kidney inflammation or pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) can occur. Blood vessel inflammation can cause serious problems. Liver damage, even failure, is possible, but seems less likely than with a similar drug, propylthiouracil, especially in children. Low white blood cell or platelet counts can also happen.
Available in 3 variations
Methimercazole 10 Tablet (1*30)
Methimazole (10mg)
strip of 30 tablets
Methimercazole 5mg Tablet
Methimazole (5mg)
strip of 30 tablets
Methimercazole 5 Tablet
Methimercazole 5 Tablet
Methimazole (5mg)
strip of 30 tablets
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