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
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Click HereSummary
Carbimazole is primarily used to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It's also used to prepare patients for thyroid surgery or radioiodine treatment.
Carbimazole is a prodrug that converts into its active form, thiamazole, in the body. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which helps to reduce the overactivity of the thyroid gland in conditions like hyperthyroidism.
Carbimazole is taken orally. For adults, the initial dose is typically 20 mg to 60 mg per day, taken in two to three divided doses. For children and adolescents aged 3 to 17 years, the usual initial daily dose is 15 mg, adjusted according to response. It's not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
Common side effects of Carbimazole include nausea, headache, mild gastrointestinal disturbance, skin rashes, and itching. These usually occur in the first eight weeks of treatment and are often temporary. Serious adverse effects include bone marrow depression, agranulocytosis (a severe reduction in white blood cells), and liver disorders.
Carbimazole may cause bone marrow depression, agranulocytosis, and liver disorders. If symptoms like sore throats, fever, or jaundice occur, seek medical advice immediately. It's contraindicated for patients with hypersensitivity to the active substance, serious blood conditions, and severe liver insufficiency.
Indications and Purpose
What is Carbimazole used for?
Carbimazole is indicated for conditions requiring a reduction in thyroid function, such as hyperthyroidism, preparation for thyroidectomy in hyperthyroidism, and therapy before and after radio-iodine treatment.
How does Carbimazole work?
Carbimazole is a pro-drug that is metabolized into thiamazole, which inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones by blocking the organification of iodide and the coupling of iodothyronine residues.
Is Carbimazole effective?
Carbimazole is an anti-thyroid agent that works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones. It is effective in treating hyperthyroidism, preparing for thyroidectomy, and managing therapy before and after radio-iodine treatment. Its effectiveness is monitored through thyroid function tests.
How does one know if Carbimazole is working?
The benefit of Carbimazole is evaluated through regular thyroid function monitoring. Dosage adjustments are made based on these tests to maintain a euthyroid state and prevent over-treatment or hypothyroidism.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Carbimazole?
For adults, the initial dose of Carbimazole is typically between 20 mg to 60 mg per day, divided into two to three doses. For children aged 3 to 17 years, the usual initial daily dose is 15 mg, adjusted according to response. Carbimazole is not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
How do I take Carbimazole?
Carbimazole should be taken orally, and there are no specific instructions regarding taking it with or without food. There are no known food restrictions, but always follow your doctor's advice.
For how long do I take Carbimazole?
Carbimazole therapy is typically continued for at least six months and can extend up to 18 months. The duration depends on the patient's response and thyroid function monitoring.
How long does it take for Carbimazole to start working?
Carbimazole begins to work within a few days, but it may take several weeks to achieve a euthyroid state. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is necessary to adjust the dosage and ensure effectiveness.
How should I store Carbimazole?
Carbimazole should be stored in its original blister pack to protect it from light. It does not require any special temperature storage conditions.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Carbimazole?
Important warnings for Carbimazole include the risk of bone marrow depression, liver disorders, and hypersensitivity reactions. It is contraindicated in patients with serious haematological conditions, severe hepatic insufficiency, and a history of acute pancreatitis after taking Carbimazole.
Can I take Carbimazole with other prescription drugs?
Carbimazole may interact with anticoagulants, increasing their effect. It can also affect the serum levels of theophylline and digitalis glycosides. Co-administration with prednisolone may increase its clearance, and it may inhibit the metabolism of erythromycin.
Can I take Carbimazole with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Carbimazole be taken safely while pregnant?
Carbimazole should only be used during pregnancy after a strict benefit/risk assessment. It is suspected to cause congenital malformations, especially in the first trimester. If used, the lowest effective dose should be administered, and close monitoring is recommended.
Can Carbimazole be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Carbimazole is excreted in breast milk, and if treatment is continued during lactation, breastfeeding should be discontinued to avoid potential harm to the baby.
Is Carbimazole safe for the elderly?
For elderly patients, no special dosage regimen is required, but caution is advised. The risk of a fatal outcome to neutrophil dyscrasia may be greater in the elderly, so monitoring and adherence to contraindications and warnings are important.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Carbimazole?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Carbimazole?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
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