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.
•
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.
•
Methimazole is also used before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment.
•
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.
T 4 levels improved
My 17 year old Maine Coon is hanging in there. He hasn't gained any weight, but at least he hasn't lost any more.
He's on 3/4 of a tablet/day, which is a pain to cut accurarately. I crush the tablet and mix it into a tablespoon of canned cat food. He gobbles up this treat.
04/30/2013
The medication has worked well for my 20 year old Pippin. She has gained weight since she started taking it. The cost is 1/3 of what my vet charges. However, on the last shipment the "treat" was a dog bone. Pippin was not amused.
04/13/2013
My 17 year old cat Nicky has Hyperthyroid and was on one half of a 5 mg pill. After 6 months I had him checked and his level was still too high. He is now on 1/2 twice a day and doing fine. The trick is to skip a dose so that the levels stay in the good zone. I had him checked after 1 year and levels are perfect. I told the vet that I skip a dose now and then. This way testing doen"t have to be done as often. Nicky has lost two pounds and trying to keep his weight up there. Also any one thinking about bringing a new cat home when you already have a senior cat,do it. I
brought home a 4 week kitten that my brother saved. She needed a home, thid was the best thing that I ever have done. My senior cat romps and runs up and down the hallway with the baby. They groom each other and sleep together. Best thing to have two cats.
04/02/2013
cost, size and effectiveness.
The cost is better than any researched. The size has not changed (small) and is given by piller. The effectiveness of the 5g did not require changing.
I am very pleased with the Methimazole,
Combination of Methimazole, Nutra Cal and Vita Chews has kept my cat's weight up and healthy as possibly could be with this condition.
01/28/2013
cost to much
this med cost more than from my vet that's why i can't order it
01/10/2013
Began w/ 2.5-NG, 5.0-NG, 7.5 worked & doing fine. Then a refill they messed up & gave me 2.5 pills instead of 5's so she wasn't even getting 4 mg. They realized when she was so hungry always again & put to 7.5 again & wasn't showing affecting labs anymore so they upped to 10 mg even tho she had side affects of vomiting. Now she threw up blood for 2 days & after 3 days of fluids, she cannot even get up to go potty, and is like a limp ragdoll, occasionally w/ a cry. Is there any chance for her to rebound now or should I put her out of her misery? Help-can't watch this much longer, but vet thinks there's hope (sadly, don't see it any longer)...
I think you are referring to Methimazole in a compounded form. We do provide Methimazole 50mg/ml and 100mg/ml, in a transdermal gel form. This comes in 1ml syringes ,not the twist type that you are reffering to. Ask your veterinarian if this will be compatable with what you are currently using. Thank you for your question.
It is available as a chew tablet. It can be found on our website under "compounded methimazole." We offer 5 mg tablets as a quantity of 30 tablets for $57.99 or 90 tablets for $77.99. We also offer 10 mg tablets as a quantity of 30 tablets for $57.99 or 90 tablets for $80.49
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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