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Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by abnormally low thyroid hormone production. There are many disorders that result in hypothyroidism. These disorders may directly or indirectly involve the thyroid gland. Because thyroid hormone affects growth, development, and many cellular processes, inadequate thyroid hormone has widespread consequences for the body.
This article will focus specifically on hypothyroidism in adults.
Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland. This gland is located in the lower part of the neck, below the Adam's apple. The gland wraps around the windpipe (trachea) and has a shape that is similar to a butterfly - formed by two wings (lobes) and attached by a middle part (isthmus).
The thyroid gland uses iodine (mostly available from the diet in foods such as seafood, bread, and salt) to produce thyroid hormones....
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Do not use this medication if you are allergic to methimazole.
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication:
FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use methimazole without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.
Methimazole can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use methimazole if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take methimazole with a full glass of water.
Methimazole can be taken with or without food, but you should take it the same way each time.
Methimazole can increase your risk of bleeding. If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using this medication.
Methimazole can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
It is important to use methimazole regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Keep using this medication even if you feel fine or have no symptoms of hyperthyroidism. You may need to keep taking methimazole long term to control your condition. Stopping the medication could cause your symptoms to return.
Store methimazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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