Carbimazole
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Carbimazole
Summary
Carbimazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. This can lead to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and anxiety.
Carbimazole works by reducing the production of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland, which is an organ in the neck that regulates metabolism. It inhibits an enzyme called thyroid peroxidase, which is responsible for hormone production.
The usual starting dose for adults is 15-40 mg daily, divided into two or three doses. The maximum recommended dose is 60 mg per day. It is taken orally, which means by mouth, and should be swallowed whole.
Common side effects of Carbimazole include nausea, headache, and joint pain. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, consult your doctor.
Carbimazole can cause a decrease in white blood cells, which are cells that help fight infections. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of agranulocytosis, which is a severe drop in white blood cells, and in pregnant women due to potential harm to the baby.
Indications and Purpose
How does Carbimazole work?
Carbimazole works by reducing the production of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland. It inhibits the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is responsible for the production of these hormones. Think of it like turning down the volume on a radio; Carbimazole lowers the "volume" of hormone production, helping to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid gland. This helps restore normal hormone levels and alleviates symptoms.
Is Carbimazole effective?
Carbimazole is effective in treating hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid gland. It works by reducing the production of thyroid hormones. Clinical studies show that Carbimazole effectively lowers thyroid hormone levels, helping to manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and anxiety. Regular monitoring of thyroid function tests helps ensure the medication is working effectively for your condition.
What is Carbimazole?
Carbimazole is a medication used to treat hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid gland. It belongs to a class of drugs called antithyroid agents. Carbimazole works by reducing the production of thyroid hormones, helping to manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and anxiety. It's often used as a complementary addition to other therapies, such as beta-blockers, to control symptoms while waiting for more permanent treatments like surgery or radioactive iodine.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Carbimazole?
Carbimazole is usually a long-term medication for managing hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid gland. You'll typically take Carbimazole every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Carbimazole treatment.
How do I dispose of Carbimazole?
If you can, bring unused Carbimazole to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Carbimazole?
Take Carbimazole exactly as your doctor prescribes. It's usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Follow your doctor's advice on any dietary or beverage restrictions.
How long does it take for Carbimazole to start working?
Carbimazole begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but it may take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. The time it takes to notice improvements can vary based on individual factors like the severity of your condition and your overall health. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels helps assess the medication's effectiveness. Take Carbimazole exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Carbimazole?
Store Carbimazole tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep them in a tightly closed container to protect them from damage. Don't store your medicine in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store Carbimazole out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Carbimazole?
The usual starting dose of Carbimazole for adults is 15-40 mg daily, divided into two or three doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and thyroid hormone levels. The maximum recommended dose is 60 mg per day. For children or the elderly, dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Carbimazole be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Carbimazole is not recommended while breastfeeding. It can pass into breast milk and may affect the baby's thyroid function. While we don't have specific reports of harm to breastfed babies from Carbimazole, potential risks exist. If you're taking Carbimazole and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Carbimazole be taken safely while pregnant?
Carbimazole is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to the risk of birth defects. Limited evidence exists on its safety during pregnancy, but it may harm the developing baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your thyroid condition during this important time. Your doctor can help create a pregnancy-specific treatment plan.
Can I take Carbimazole with other prescription drugs?
Carbimazole can interact with anticoagulants, which are blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding. It may also interact with other medications that affect the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you take to prevent interactions. Your doctor can help manage any potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Does Carbimazole have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Carbimazole include nausea, headache, and joint pain. These effects are usually mild. A serious adverse effect is agranulocytosis, which is a severe drop in white blood cells, requiring immediate medical attention. If you notice symptoms like fever or sore throat, contact your doctor. Always report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Does Carbimazole have any safety warnings?
Carbimazole has important safety warnings. It can cause a decrease in white blood cells, which are cells that help fight infections, leading to a higher risk of infections. If you experience symptoms like sore throat, fever, or mouth ulcers, seek medical attention immediately. Not adhering to these warnings can result in serious health issues. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is Carbimazole addictive?
Carbimazole is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. It works by affecting your thyroid gland to reduce hormone production, which doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Carbimazole doesn't carry this risk.
Is Carbimazole safe for the elderly?
The elderly are more vulnerable to safety risks of medications due to age-related changes in metabolism and organ function. Carbimazole is generally safe for elderly patients, but they may be at higher risk for side effects like agranulocytosis, which is a severe drop in white blood cells. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary. Always consult your doctor about the safety of Carbimazole for elderly patients.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Carbimazole?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Carbimazole. Alcohol can interfere with the medication's effectiveness and may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or liver problems. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for any unusual symptoms. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Carbimazole to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Carbimazole?
You can exercise while taking Carbimazole, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can cause dizziness or fatigue, which might affect your exercise capacity. To exercise safely, start with light activities and gradually increase intensity. Watch for signs of dizziness or unusual fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Check with your doctor if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Is it safe to stop Carbimazole?
Stopping Carbimazole suddenly can cause your thyroid condition to worsen. If you're taking it for hyperthyroidism, stopping may lead to a rapid increase in thyroid hormone levels, causing symptoms like anxiety, weight loss, and palpitations. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Carbimazole. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.
What are the most common side effects of Carbimazole?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Carbimazole include nausea, headache, and joint pain. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild. If you notice new symptoms after starting Carbimazole, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Carbimazole?
Don't take Carbimazole if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Carbimazole is contraindicated in patients with a history of agranulocytosis, which is a severe drop in white blood cells, and in pregnant women due to potential harm to the baby. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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