Tapazole

What is Tapazole?

Tapazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats. Tapazole is sold per tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Cats

Benefits:

• Effectively treats hyperthyroidism in cats
• Rapid results
• Lower incidence of adverse side effects than propylthiouracil
• No reported side effects
• Sold per tablet

How does Tapazole work?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Tapazole inhibits the production of thyroid hormones.

Cautions:

Blood tests must be done to check for proper dosage. Do not use in pregnant or nursing pets. Do not give your pet a live vaccine while giving Tapazole. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet develops signs of an infection.

Brand Name:

Tapazole (AAI Pharma)

Generic Name:

Methimazole

What is the most important thing I should know about Tapazole?

Tapazole prevents the thyroid gland from producing too much thyroid hormone. Tapazole is used to treat overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). It is also used before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine treatment. Tapazole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide. Tapazole 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. Tapazole is available as a 5 mg scored tablet. Do not give Tapazole to pregnant or nursing pets. Tapazole can increase the risk of bleeding. Tapazole 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 Tapazole. Tapazole is need for the life of your pet. If the medication is stopped, the symptoms will reappear.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Tapazole to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has an allergy to Tapazole 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 Tapazole.

How should Tapazole be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. The usual initial dose for cats is 5mg every 8 to 12 hours. Do not give in larger amount, 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. Tapazole can be given with or without food. Allow plenty of water for the pet to drink.

What are the potential side effects of Tapazole?

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Tapazole and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Stop giving Tapazole 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 Tapazole 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 your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Tapazole?

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 my pet on Tapazole?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Tapazole overdose may include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, joint pain, headache, fever, itching, swelling, and easy bruising or bleeding.

What should I avoid while giving Tapazole to my pet?

Do not give the pet a "live" vaccine while the pet is taking Tapazole. Contact your veterinarian at once if your pet develops signs of an infection.

What other drugs will affect Tapazole?

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 Tapazole. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines.