Methimazole 10 mg is marketed under the brand name Tapazole [1].
Who Makes Tapazole?
Tapazole is manufactured by Arbor Pharmaceuticals, LLC [1].
What is Methimazole Used For?
Methimazole is an antithyroid medication used to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone [2]. It works by reducing the amount of thyroid hormone the thyroid gland makes [2].
How Does Methimazole Work?
Methimazole inhibits the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. By blocking this enzyme, it prevents the iodination and coupling of tyrosine residues on thyroglobulin, thereby reducing the production of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) [2].
What are the Common Doses of Methimazole?
Methimazole is available in tablets of 5 mg and 10 mg [1]. The dosage is individualized based on the severity of the hyperthyroidism and patient response [2].
What are the Potential Side Effects of Methimazole?
Common side effects of methimazole can include rash, itching, hair loss, nausea, vomiting, and joint pain [2]. A rare but serious side effect is agranulocytosis, a severe drop in white blood cells that can increase the risk of infection [2][3]. Patients should report any signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat, to their doctor immediately [3].
How Long Does it Take for Methimazole to Work?
It typically takes several weeks of treatment with methimazole for thyroid hormone levels to return to normal [2].
What are the Alternatives to Methimazole for Hyperthyroidism?
Other treatment options for hyperthyroidism include propylthiouracil (PTU), radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery [2]. Propylthiouracil is another antithyroid medication, but it is generally reserved for specific situations, such as the first trimester of pregnancy or thyroid storm, due to a higher risk of liver damage compared to methimazole [2].
What is the Patent Status for Methimazole?
Methimazole is an older drug, and its original patents have long expired. As a result, it is available as a generic medication [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information for pharmaceuticals, and for older, off-patent drugs like methimazole, the focus is on the generic market [4].
What is the Cost of Methimazole?
As a generic medication, methimazole is generally affordable. The cost can vary depending on the pharmacy, insurance coverage, and whether a prescription discount card is used. A 30-day supply of generic methimazole 10 mg tablets can range from approximately $10 to $30 without insurance [5].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/en/trade-names/tapazole
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methimazole-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20067503
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519548/
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[5] https://www.goodrx.com/methimazole