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METHIMAZOLE

(For veterinary information only)

IMPORTANT NOTE: Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences lack of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, scratching, or bleeding problems while taking methimazole.

As with all medications, it is extremely important that this medication be used ONLY for the pet for which it is prescribed.

BRAND NAME:  TAPAZOLE®

HOW THIS MEDICATION IS USED

Methimazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone production) in cats.

It will treat the disease, but not cure it.  Methimazole will likely need to be given for the life of your pet.

SIDE EFFECTS

Methimazole may cause lack of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy.  The lack of appetite and vomiting usually occurs within the first two weeks of treatment and may stop as your pet adjusts to the medication.

Side effects which are more rare include scratching at self causing sores especially around the neck, bleeding, liver problems, or changes in the blood (decreased numbers of white blood cells) and platelets.

INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is on:

• blood thinners such as warfarin
• iodinated glycerol
• potassium iodide

CONCERNS AND CAUTIONS

Store methimazole at room temperature in a light resistant container.

Methimazole is not to be used in patients hypersensitive (allergic) to it.

Methimazole is not to be used in patients with other blood abnormalities, liver disease, or autoimmune disease.

Methimazole is not to be used in pregnant or nursing animals.

The kidney function will often be checked by a blood test before starting treatment because hyperthyroidism may mask the signs of kidney disease.  It is then monitored periodically after this – usually every 6 months unless your pet is having problems.

Give this medication exactly as directed by your pet’s veterinarian. Do not give more or less of it or give it longer than directed. Doses must be given at the same time each day to be effective. Do not stop giving this medication without your veterinarian’s approval.

If your pet requires any kind of surgery or emergency treatment, tell the veterinarian your pet is on this medication.  

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 672-7800.

Disclaimer: While Camrose Animal Clinic has endeavoured to make sure the information contained in this document is accurate, The Camrose Animal Clinic cannot guarantee the accuracy of such information, and it is provided without warranty or guarantee of any kind.  This information is not intended to replace the advice of your pet’s own veterinarian.  .  This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medication or interactions with other medications. Ask your veterinarian or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

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