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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 żliveż 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 donżt 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 żliveż 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.
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