Tapazole (Methimazole) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Tapazole used for?

Tapazole, with the generic name methimazole, is an oral prescription drug prescribed to patients with Graves’ disease with hyperthyroidism or toxic multinodular goiter if surgery or radioactive iodine therapy is not a treatment option. It is also being used to lessen the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in preparation for radioactive iodine therapy or thyroidectomy. This is classified as an antithyroid agent.

This prescription drug may be prescribed by the doctor for other conditions not listed in the Tapazole Uses. This is available in Tapazole 5 mg tablets.

How does Tapazole work?

This prescription drug is a thionamide antithyroid agent. It works by inhibiting the actions of thyroid peroxidase, which reduces thyroid hormone synthesis and ameliorates symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

How to use Tapazole

Before using Tapazole for the first time, you must read the entire prescription medication guide. Be familiar with all the important information regarding this product. If you have concerns regarding this, you may talk to your healthcare provider.

This oral tablet is usually taken 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the recommendation of the doctor. Do not change the Tapazole dosage prescribed to you. You may take this tablet with a meal or on an empty stomach.

Tapazole Side Effects

Common side effects: 

• Stomach upset 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Mild rash
• Itching

The unwanted effects brought about by this oral drug are mostly mild. If they become worse or if they last longer than expected, you must consult your physician. You should report severe or rare side effects, including 

• Shortness of breath 
• Tingling sensation
• Numbness
• Joint/muscle pain
• Coughing up blood
• Severe abdominal pain
• Bloody urine
• Changes in the amount of urine
• Unusual tiredness
• Easy bleeding or bruising
• Fever
• Persistent sore throat

Precautions when using Tapazole

Using this oral medication may be contraindicated for people with liver disease, pancreatitis, thrombocytopenia, and agranulocytosis. Patients are also advised to be mindful when taking other drugs as they may interact with this medication.

Avoid this oral product if you have a known hypersensitivity to methimazole or any of the ingredients of the tablet. Signs of severe hypersensitivity are dizziness, itching, rashes, hives, swelling of the face, and trouble breathing. This would require emergency medical attention.

Taking this tablet is not recommended, especially in the first three months of pregnancy. It is also known to pass into breast milk. Discuss all the possible risks with your healthcare provider.

How much does Tapazole cost in Canada?

You may see the price list of this oral tablet from the list above. Note that a medical prescription is required when purchasing this medication. Buy your prescription drugs from MapleLeafMeds.com to get big discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Tapazole work? 

This type of prescription drug does not relieve hyperthyroidism right away. It may take a few weeks or a few months for this medication to work.

Does Tapazole cause weight loss? 

Although not very common, weight loss may occur while taking this antithyroid medication. However, any unusual or abrupt weight changes must be reported.

How long can you stay on Tapazole? 

If the goal is to alleviate symptoms of hyperthyroidism, it should be taken for six to twelve weeks. But for most patients, this is prescribed for up to 18 months.

What happens when you stop taking Tapazole? 

Discontinuing this medication, even for a short while, could worsen conditions. It can cause nervousness, panic attacks, and increased thirst.

What is the best time to take Tapazole? 

Take this tablet during the time that you will remember it. There is no specified time to take this product, just as long as you take it at the same time each day.

What medications interact with Tapazole? 

Some of the prescription or nonprescription drugs that may interact with Tapazole (generic name: methimazole) are those that contain iodine, potassium iodide, and ruxolitinib. Do not take these products together.

Is there a generic for Tapazole? 

This brand-name prescription drug is available in methimazole tablets. Note that you should not switch to a generic alternative unless you can consult a medical professional.