Methimazole Description

Generic Name : METHIMAZOLE

Pronunciation : (meth im' a zole)

Trade Name(s) : Mercazole, Thyrozole.

Why it is prescribed: Methimazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It is also taken before thyroid surgery.

When it is to be taken: Methimazole usually is taken three times a day, approximately every eight hours. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. To be effective, methimazole must be taken regularly around the clock.

How it should be taken: Methimazole comes in the form of tablets. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Keep all appointments with your doctor so that your response to the drug can be evaluated. Your dose may need to be adjusted.
2. Do not take more or less methimazole and do not take it more or less often or for a longer period than as directed. Do not stop taking this drug without consulting your doctor.
3. If you forget to take a dose, take it a soon as your remember and take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.

Side Effects :
1. Skin rash, itching. If the rash lasts for more than few days or covers a lot of your body, contact your doctor.
2. Abnormal hair loss, nausea, vomiting, loss of taste, abnormal sensations, joint and muscle pain, headaches. If these effects persist or are severe, contact your doctor.
3. Sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, fever, chills, yellowing of skin and eyes. Contact your doctor at once.

Other Precautions :
1. Methimazole may affect the way your body responds to other drugs. Before you take it, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking.
2. Before you take methimazole, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding or if you have blood disease.
3. Before having emergency treatment or surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor that you take methimazole.
4. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions : Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature.