SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, loss of taste, headache, joint/muscle pain, abnormal hair loss, drowsiness, dizziness, or burning/tingling of hands/feet may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, loss of appetite, persistent nausea/vomiting, change in the amount of urine.
This medication may rarely cause a very serious decrease in the number of cells in your blood (blood counts), especially during the first few months after you start taking the medication. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop the following symptoms: fever, persistent sore throat, unusual tiredness, weakness, easy bruising/bleeding.
Be sure to keep all medical appointments so your doctor can closely monitor you.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking methimazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, blood disorders (e.g., agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Before you have surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you take this medication.
This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking methimazole. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Consult your doctor for more details.
This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.