৳ 3/unit
Pack: ৳ 3
৳ 3/unit
Pack: ৳ 3
At a glance
Carbimazole is an anti-thyroid medication used in the management of hyperthyroidism, thyrotoxicosis, and preparation for thyroidectomy. It works by reducing the amount of thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland.
Indications
- Hyperthyroidism
- Thyrotoxicosis (including thyroid storm)
- Preparation for thyroidectomy
- Combination with radio-active ablative therapy
- Graves' disease
Pharmacology
Carbimazole is an anti-thyroid substance that depresses thyroid hormone formation. It inhibits thyroid peroxidase, blocking thyroid hormone production. Carbimazole is completely metabolised to methimazole, which is responsible for its clinical activity.
Dosage
Adults: Initial dose: 20-60 mg/day (in 2-3 divided doses) until euthyroid state is achieved. Maintenance: 5-15 mg/day (can be taken as a single dose). Treatment duration: 18-24 months.
Children (under 12 years): Initial 250 mcg/kg/day (in divided doses).
Children (3-17 years): Initial 15 mg/day; adjust according to response.
Hepatic impairment: Severe: Contraindicated; caution required.
Renal impairment: Limited information; caution required.
Side effects
Common side effects: Skin rash, headache, skin pigmentation, paresthesia (tingling sensation), urticaria, arthralgia (joint pain), gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort), abnormal hair loss, muscle pain/weakness.
Serious (rare): Agranulocytosis (severe decrease in white blood cells), aplastic anemia, thrombocytopenia, drug fever, lupus-like syndrome, vasculitis, nephritis, hepatic disorders (jaundice), taste disturbances.
Caution: Inform your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection (fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers) as this may indicate agranulocytosis.
Use in pregnancy
Unsafe during pregnancy (Category D). Definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. Use the lowest effective dose; overdosage may cause fetal hypothyroidism and goitre. May be used in life-threatening situations.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Risk of agranulocytosis: Inform your doctor immediately if you develop fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, unexplained bruising/bleeding; get CBC checked.
- Signs of liver damage (abdominal pain, loss of appetite, darkened urine, yellowing of eyes/skin): Stop medication and inform your doctor.
- Use the lowest effective dose during pregnancy (overdosage may harm the fetus).
- Caution during breastfeeding (excreted in breast milk; monitor infant thyroid function).
- Extreme caution in tracheal obstruction (high doses may cause thyroid enlargement).
- Know your response before driving (may cause dizziness/drowsiness).
Overdose effects
Overdose may result in hypothyroidism and goitre. If blood dyscrasias occur, withdraw the drug immediately. Treatment: Symptomatic and supportive.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.