Methimazole is an antithyroid drug similar in action to propylthiouracil.
Indications
Methimazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition that usually occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It is also taken before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine therapy. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information.
Form
Methimazole comes as a tablet and may be taken from one to three times a day, with food (check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information). Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Adverse Effects
Contact your healthcare provider IMMEDIATELY if a fever or sore throat develops while taking methimazole; this could indicate the development of agranulocytosis, an uncommon side effect resulting from a drop in the white blood cell count (specifically, neutropenia, which indicates a deficiency of neutrophils). A complete blood count (CBC) with differential needs to be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
General Side Effects
Although side effects from methimazole are not common (~5%), they can occur. Tell your healthcare provider if any of these symptoms are severe or persist:
- 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
- decreased white blood cells
- decreased platelets
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your healthcare provider immediately:
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