TAPAZOLE

Do not use Tapazole in people with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity: Methimazole should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the medication or any of its components. Allergic reactions to methimazole can range from mild skin rashes to severe and potentially life-threatening reactions.
• Pregnancy: Methimazole is generally contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy due to an increased risk of causing birth defects, particularly aplasia cutis (a condition characterized by the absence of a portion of the skin). However, in cases where the benefits outweigh the risks, methimazole may be used during pregnancy with close monitoring and careful consideration by the healthcare provider.
• Breastfeeding: Methimazole may be present in breast milk and may potentially harm the nursing infant. It is generally recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking methimazole. Alternative feeding methods should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
• Severe liver disease: Methimazole is metabolized in the liver, and severe liver disease can impair its metabolism and clearance from the body. In such cases, the use of methimazole may lead to an increased risk of side effects or toxicity. Alternative treatment options should be considered in individuals with severe liver disease.
• Blood dyscrasias: Methimazole can rarely cause blood disorders, such as agranulocytosis (a severe decrease in white blood cell count) or thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelet count). Therefore, methimazole is contraindicated in individuals with a history of blood dyscrasias or bone marrow suppression.

It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Always inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, current medications, or underlying conditions, before starting methimazole or any other new medication. They can assess the potential risks and benefits and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Tapazole may have the following side effects:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Methimazole may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach. These side effects are usually mild and transient. Taking methimazole with food or dividing the dosage throughout the day might help alleviate these symptoms
• Skin reactions: Some individuals may experience skin reactions, including rash, itching, or hives. If you develop any skin-related symptoms, it is important to inform your healthcare provider. Severe skin reactions are rare but can occur
• Hair loss: Methimazole may cause temporary hair loss in some individuals. Typically, hair regrowth occurs once the treatment is discontinued
• Changes in taste: Methimazole can alter the sense of taste, leading to a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth. This side effect is usually temporary and resolves on its own
• Muscle and joint pain: Some individuals may experience muscle or joint pain while taking methimazole. If you find these symptoms bothersome, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider
• Blood disorders: Although rare, methimazole can affect blood cell production in the bone marrow, leading to conditions such as agranulocytosis (a severe decrease in white blood cell count) or thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelet count). These conditions can increase the risk of infections or bleeding, respectively. Regular blood tests are usually conducted to monitor blood cell counts during methimazole treatment.
• Liver toxicity: Methimazole can rarely cause liver toxicity, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain. Regular liver function tests are typically performed to monitor liver health during treatment.
• Other less common side effects: Some individuals may experience dizziness, headache, fatigue, or changes in the sense of smell or vision while on methimazole. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

Keep in mind that your physician has recommended this drug since he or she has known that the advantage to you is more noteworthy than the risk of adverse reactions. Many individuals utilizing this medicine don’t have serious side effects.

A serious allergy to this medication is uncommon. In any case, seek emergency medical help if you see any manifestations of a serious allergic response, including a rash, tingling or swelling particularly of the face or tongue or throat, dizziness or difficulty in breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you see other effects not recorded above, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Precautions

Take extra caution in patients with the following medical conditions:

• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to methimazole or any of its components, it is important to avoid using this medication. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe and potentially life-threatening reactions. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe skin rash, seek immediate medical attention
• Regular monitoring: Methimazole can affect the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. Therefore, it is important to have regular blood tests, including complete blood cell counts, to monitor your blood cell levels. This is especially important during the first few months of treatment. If you experience any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, or unusual bruising or bleeding, inform your healthcare provider immediately
• Liver function: Methimazole can rarely cause liver toxicity. Regular liver function tests should be conducted to monitor your liver health while on methimazole. If you notice any symptoms of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain, contact your healthcare provider
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Methimazole should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, due to the potential risk of birth defects. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of methimazole treatment with your healthcare provider. Methimazole may also pass into breast milk and potentially harm the nursing infant. It is generally recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking methimazole. Discuss alternative feeding options with your healthcare provider
• Surgical procedures: If you are scheduled for any surgical procedures, including dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking methimazole. They may recommend temporarily discontinuing the medication before the procedure.

Prior to taking this medicine, tell your physician or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have some other hypersensitivities. This drug may contain inert ingredients which can cause unfavorable side effects or different issues. Talk with your pharmacist for more information.

Interactions

Tapazole may interact with the following medicines:

• Blood thinners (such as warfarin): Methimazole may increase the effects of blood thinners, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose of your blood thinner and monitor your blood clotting parameters closely.
• Diabetes medications: Methimazole may affect blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes. It is important to monitor your blood sugar regularly while taking methimazole and inform your healthcare provider if you notice any significant changes. Adjustments to your diabetes medication may be necessary.
• Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can increase the risk of bleeding when used in combination with methimazole. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your blood clotting parameters more closely if you are taking both medications.
• Other medications: Methimazole can potentially interact with other medications, including beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and certain antibiotics. These interactions can affect the effectiveness or side effects of both medications. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid such interactions.
• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while on methimazole may increase the risk of liver toxicity. It is generally recommended to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication
• Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice may interact with methimazole, potentially increasing its concentration in the body. It is advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on methimazole.

Inform your physician about the drugs you take including over-the-counter medications, prescribed drugs, supplements and vitamins.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Approach your physician or pharmacist for more details.

The effects of certain medications can change if you consume different medications or herbal products simultaneously. This can build your risk for side effects or may cause your drugs not to work effectively. These interactions are conceivable, yet don’t generally happen. Your physician or pharmacist can prevent or oversee interactions by changing how you utilize your prescriptions or by close checking.

While utilizing this drug, don’t start, stop, or change the dose of other medicines you are using without your physician’s advice.

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor right away.

Available Brands:

• Tapazole