Carbimazole belongs to a category of medicines called antithyroid agents. It is used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and reduction of thyroid function is required. Carbimazole is used to reduce the formation of thyroid hormones in the body. Carbimazole is also used to treat more serious cases in order to bring back the normal function of the thyroid, for example, before the thyroid is partially removed by surgery. Besides, it is used together with other treatments for hyperactive thyroid function.
Before taking carbimazole tablets, there are a few things that you need to know. Do not take carbimazole tablets if you:
- are allergic to carbimazole or other ingredients that contain in this medicine which are lactose monohydrate, maize starch, citric acid monohydrate and magnesium stearate
- have a serious hematology or blood disorder
- have a serious liver problems
- had acute pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) after administration of carbimazole or thiamazole in the past (medicine history)
On top of that, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking carbimazole tablets if you:
- have mild or moderate liver disorder
- have swelling in your neck that is also known as goitre
This medicinal product also can cause harm to an unborn baby. Thus, women should use effective contraception to avoid getting pregnant while taking this medicine. If you could get pregnant, use reliable contraceptive methods from the time you start treatment and during treatment. However, your treatment with carbimazole tablets may need to be proceed during your pregnancy journey if the potential benefit outweighs the harmful risk to you and your unborn baby.
Carbimazole tablets may need to be discontinued if you develop any symptoms which may be signs of inflammation of the pancreas (acute pancreatitis). Therefore, if you experience fever or abdominal pain, tell your doctor straight away. Occasional blood tests may be needed to determine how you are responding to treatment.
Most medicines have interaction with other drugs, the same goes to carbimazole tablets. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have recently taken, are taking or might take any other type of medicines, that may include:
- Theophylline, type of medicine used to treat asthma or breathing problems
- Anticoagulants, blood thinning medicines
- Other thyroid medicines such as thiamazole and propylthiouracil which may trigger cross allergy
On the other hand, you are recommended not to drive or use machines as the effects of Carbimazole on the ability to drive and operate machinery have not been established. Unless, you are sure your coordination and judgement are not affected. Besides, inform your doctor if you have an intolerance to some sugar before taking this medicinal product as carbimazole contains lactose.
How To Take Carbimazole?
Remember to always take Carbimazole tablets exactly as your doctor has prescribed or told you. You are advised not to increase or decrease the dose on your own. If you are not sure, you are suggested to check with your doctor or pharmacist. The recommended dose of this carbimazole is:
- Elderly and adults: The usual starting dose for adults is 1 to 3 times of 20mg tablets or 4 to 12 times of 5mg tablets.
- Children: For children the usual starting dose is 3 times of 5mg tablets.
You may take carbimazole tablets with or without food. Once control is achieved, your doctor may gradually reduce your dose each day. You may also be given an additional L-thyroxine tablet, to help in controlling your thyroid condition. In order to keep control of the thyroid gland, you still have to continue taking those medicines for several months. Based on your health condition, your doctor will decide when treatment can be stopped.
