Have you ever faced a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much hormones (Hyperthyroidism)? In such cases, Methimazole is a medicine that doctors often recommend. You may already be using this medicine. Or perhaps a family member or friend of yours is taking this medicine. So, it is very important to be fully informed about this medicine. Today, we will talk about this in a simple way that you can understand.
What kind of medicine is Methimazole?
Simply put, Methimazole is a drug that controls, or reduces, the production of too much thyroid hormone by your thyroid gland. This condition is medically known as hyperthyroidism. When this hormone increases in the body, symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, weight loss, sweating, and irritability can occur. So what Methimazole does is control the production of these hormones and bring you back to normal.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Methimazole for you, it is very important to give him a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell him about these things in particular.
- If you have any liver disease .
- If your blood test results show low white cell counts.
- If you have previously had an allergy to Methimazole, another medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (this is very important).
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, your doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or whether the dosage needs to be changed.
How should I use the medicine?
This is a pill to take by mouth. Take this medicine with a glass of water. Follow the instructions your doctor gave you exactly as directed.
The most important thing is that you take the medicine at the same time every day. You can take it before or after a meal. But if you took it after a meal today, take it after a meal every day. If you took it before a meal today, take it before a meal every day. By following the same routine like this, you can keep the way the medicine is absorbed into the body consistent.
Take the prescribed dose as prescribed by your doctor. Never stop taking your medication without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause your thyroid hormone levels to suddenly increase again.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other medications that may interact with Methimazole
If you are taking medication for another condition, you should also tell your doctor about it, as some medications can interact with Methimazole. For example:
- Theophylline, Aminophylline, used for diseases like asthma
- Some medications for heart disease and high blood pressure (e.g. metoprolol, propranolol)
- Digoxin for heart disease
- Warfarin, which prevents blood clotting
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins and traditional medicines).
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
There are several things you should pay attention to when taking Methimazole.
1. Scheduled medical checkups: Be sure to go to your doctor's appointments. He or she will need to do blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels and blood cell counts.
2. Watch out for fever, sore throat: This is very important. If you suddenly develop a fever, chills, a sore throat, or mouth sores, don't take it lightly. These could be signs of a low white blood cell count (Agranulocytosis). So, don't self-medicate and talk to your doctor right away.
3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor beforehand. If you become pregnant while taking Methimazole, it may have some effects on the unborn baby. Therefore, it is best to talk to your doctor and choose the safest option.
4. Surgery: If you are having any surgery, tell the medical team in advance that you are taking Methimazole.
Side effects of the medicine
Like any medicine, Methimazole can cause some side effects. Some of these are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.
| Side Effect | Main symptoms |
|---|---|
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat. (This is very important as mentioned above) |
| Liver Injury | Pain in the upper right part of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual tiredness. |
| Hypothyroidism | Too low thyroid levels due to the effects of the medication. Unusual fatigue, inability to tolerate cold, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, depression. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Other features | Change in taste, dizziness, hair loss, headache, nausea, stomach upset. |
How should I store the medicine?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children . Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius), away from light and moisture, with the bottle tightly closed. Discard any expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Methimazole is a medication that should only be used on the advice of your doctor.
- Take the prescribed dose at the prescribed time. Do not stop taking the medication for any reason without your doctor's advice.
- If you experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or yellowing of the skin or eyes while taking the medicine, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you are hoping to get pregnant, talk to your doctor about it beforehand and take the appropriate steps.
- It is essential to go to clinics on scheduled dates and get the necessary blood tests.
- This medicine is for you only. Never give your medicine to others.
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