Methimazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. It has largely replaced propylthiouracil in this treatment process since it has a lower incidence of adverse side effects. Methimazole requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold per tablet.
For: Cats
Benefits:
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Effectively treats hyperthyroidism in cats
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Rapid results
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Affordably sold per tablet
How it works: Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Methimazole inhibits the production of thyroid hormones.
Cautions: Blood tests must be done to check for proper dosage. Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals. Do not give your pet a live vaccine while giving methimazole. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet develops signs of an infection.
More Information:
Brand Name Tapazole (Jones)
Generic Name Methimazole
What is the most important information I should know about Methimazole: Methimazole is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in cats. Methimazole is available as a 5mg scored tablet. The usual initial dose for cats is 5mg every 8 to 12 hours. Do not give methimazole to pregnant or nursing animals. Methimazole can increase the risk of bleeding. Methimazole can lower the blood cells that help fight infections. Your veterinarian will need to give blood tests on a regular basis to be sure these blood cells do not get too low. Do not give the pet a "live" vaccine while the pet is taking methimazole. Methimazole is needed for the life of the pet. If the medication is stopped, the symptoms will reappear.
What is Methimazole: Methimazole prevents the thyroid gland from producing too much thyroid hormone. Methimazole is used to treat overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). It is also used before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment. Methimazole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Methimazole to my pet: Tell your veterinarian if your pet has an allergy to methimazole or if your pet has liver disease, a blood cell disorder, or a weak immune system. Tell your veterinarian if the pet is pregnant or nursing. Inform your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements your pet may be taking while receiving methimazole.
How should this medication be given: Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Do not give in larger amounts, or give it for longer than recommended by your veterinarian. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Methimazole can be given with or without food. Allow plenty of water for the pet to drink. Store methimazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.
What happens if I miss giving a dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don¿t remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet: Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of methimazole overdose may include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, joint pain, headache, fever, itching, swelling, and easy bruising or bleeding.
What should I avoid while giving Methimazole to my pet: Do not give the pet a "live" vaccine while the pet is taking methimazole. Contact your veterinarian at once if your pet develops signs of an infection.
What are the possible side effects of Methimazole: If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving methimazole and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Stop giving methimazole and contact your veterinarian at once if your pet develops any of these serious side effects; fever, chills, body aches; easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness; blood in the urine or stools; severe blistering, peeling, and skin rash; nausea, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving methimazole and talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences headache, drowsiness, dizziness; mild nausea, or vomiting; itching; muscle, joint, or nerve pain; swelling; hair loss. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
What other drugs will affect Methimazole: Tell your veterinarian if your pet is taking theophylline (Theo-Dur), warfarin (Coumadin), digoxin (Lanoxin), a beta blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor), or propranolol (Inderal). Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Methimazole. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about methimazole written for health professionals that you may read.
Call your veterinarian for medical advice about any side effects to your pet. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Directions:
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Methimazole is a prescription medication used by veterinarians to treat overactive (hyper) thyroid in cats.
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Methimazole is not FDA approved for use in veterinary medicine; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication for cats.
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Methimazole is also used before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment.
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Periodic blood tests will be necessary while the cat is taking this medication.
Tip: Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals. Methimazole can be given with or without food.
Dosage:
Pet
Weight
Dosage
Cats:
All weights
The usual initial dose varies from 2.5-5mg 2 or 3 times a day. Periodic blood testing is required to monitor liver function and for any toxic effects on blood cells
Dogs:
Horses:
Storage: Store methimazole at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Mixed Tabby
I am really happy with the cost at 1800Pet Meds and am happy with the Methimazole although I find that my AbbyLou still drinks a lot of water and is always hungry. I took her to Vet recently and all her scores came out perfect. She begs for food constantly and also iches a lot. I am going to try the Hills Science diet for Thyroid that was recommended by one of your customes. She is playful enough for 13 years old. My Vet keeps her at the same dosage.
04/30/2012
Thyroid Medication
Rusty was getting so bony and skinny and it was unlike his usual thick, robust self. I went to the vet, and he was diagnosed with a thyroid problem. Once he went on this medication, he's back to his old thick self. This stuff works really great. I just crush it with the back of a spoon, rub some wet cat food into it and he doesn't even know it's there.
04/11/2012
Giving your tabby his pill is easy when you open a can of fancy feast (I call it meaty meat) and put the pill on a paper plate and crush it with the bottom of a glass. I then add a teaspoon of soft food and roll the pill around in it. He never knows the difference. He eats it up and this way I dont have to throw it down his throat anymore. Works like a charm.
04/08/2012
Raven is only 11 and since he will be on this medicine the rest of his life, I am thrilled to find a cost that will enable me to give him the kind of care he deserves.
04/02/2012
Great Service
Really great service,fast shipping,and I can actually afford his prescriptions now.Mickey is healthy and happy.
02/11/2012
My cat has been taking methimazole for approximately 6 months and seems to be doing well. She has gained about a pound! I'm wondering if milk should NOT be given to her close to the medication time. I know the human form of thyroid medicines you shouldn't consume milk/calcium for 4 hours after taking the medicine.
There is no difference between the two products, they both help treat hyperthyroidism in cats: Tapazole is the brand name and Methamazole is the generic, which saves you money.
I am confused by the questions and answers.......if you sell the Methimazole pen that you click twice, I do not see it showing available with the tablets - Do you sell the pen or not and if so, the price please (mine now lasts 15 days that I tried from the vet). Thank you
This is a compounded item. We sell it in two strengths. METHIMAZOLE 100MG/ML 1ML TRANSDERMAL 17.99 METHIMAZOLE 50MG/ML 1ML TRANSDERMAL 14.99 At this time Compound Medications are only available by calling 1-800-PetMeds (1-800-738-6337)
My cat is on a low dose of methimazole - 1.25 mg. twice a day. This means breaking the very small 5 mg. tablet into quarters, which is not easy to do and it's difficult to administer the tiny pill piece in a piller. Can I find tablets in a lower dosage?
This information sheet is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian. Note: Any trademarks are the property of their respective companies.
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