- Brand Name : Tapazole
- Drug Class : Antithyroid Agents
- Medical Author : John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
- Medical Reviewer :
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What Is Methimazole and How Does It Work?
Methimazole is used to treat overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). It works by stopping the thyroid gland from making too much thyroid hormone.
- Methimazole is available under the following different brand names: Northyx, and Tapazole.
What Are Dosages of Methimazole?
Dosages of Methimazole:
Adult and Pediatric Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Dosing Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:
Hyperthyroidism
Adult:
- Mild: 15 mg/day orally divided every 8 hours initially
- Moderate: 30-40 mg/day orally divided every 8 hours initially
- Severe: 60 mg/day orally divided every 8 hours initially
- Maintenance: 5-15 mg/day orally divided every 8 hours
Pediatric:
- Initial: 0.4-0.7 mg/kg/day orally divided every 8 hours
- Maintenance: 1/3-2/3 of initial orally dosage divided every 8 hours orally
- Not to exceed 30 mg/day
Graves Disease
- Adult: 10-20 mg/day orally; after euthyroidism is achieved, reduce dosage by 50% and administer for 12-18 months
- Pediatric: 0.2-0.5 mg/kg/day orally; after euthyroidism is achieved, reduce dosage by 50% and administered for 1-2 years
Thyrotoxic Crisis
- 20-30 mg every 6-12 hours for the short term, then reduce dosage to maintenance (5-15 mg/day) or reduce the frequency to every 12 hours or every 24 hours