Methimazole (Thyroid Medicine)
What is Methimazole?
Methimazole is a medicine used to treat hyperthyroidism, which means the thyroid gland is making too much thyroid hormone.
Too much thyroid hormone can cause:
- Fast heartbeat
- Weight loss
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Sweating
- Shaking
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling hungry often
Methimazole helps slow down the thyroid gland so the body can work more normally.
Common Brand Name
A common brand name is:
- Tapazole
How Should My Child Take This Medicine?
- Give the medicine exactly as prescribed.
- It may be taken with or without food.
- Try to give it at the same time each day.
- Do not stop the medicine unless your child’s provider tells you to.
Your child may need blood tests regularly to check thyroid levels and watch for side effects.
What If I Miss a Dose?
- Give the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.
- Do not give two doses at the same time.
If you are unsure what to do, contact your child’s healthcare provider.
Possible Side Effects
Many children take methimazole without major problems.
Common Side Effects
- Mild rash or itching
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Joint or muscle aches
Serious Side Effects — Call Your Provider Right Away
Methimazole can rarely lower the body’s ability to fight infection.
Call your provider immediately if your child has:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Unusual tiredness
- Easy bruising or bleeding
Methimazole can also rarely affect the liver.
Call your provider if your child has:
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Dark urine
- Severe stomach pain
- Severe nausea or vomiting
Important Tips
- Keep all follow-up appointments and lab visits.
- Tell all healthcare providers your child is taking methimazole.
- Do not change the dose unless your provider tells you to.
- Improvement may take several weeks.
When to Call the Healthcare Provider
Call your child’s provider if:
- Your child develops fever or sore throat
- You notice side effects
- Your child misses several doses
- Symptoms of hyperthyroidism return or worsen
Seek emergency care for:
- Trouble breathing
- Severe allergic reaction
- Severe weakness or confusion
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
- Keep away from heat and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Questions?
If you have questions about your child’s thyroid medicine, contact Endo For Kids.
