(Tapazole ® is another name for this medication)

Use: Methimazole is a medication given to cats to lower the amount of thyroid hormone. It does not cure an overactive thyroid but will control this disease if given to the animal for the rest of its life.

Side Effects: Most side effects happen in the first year of therapy. The most common side effect is vomiting and loss of appetite. Some cats will develop a skin condition from methimazole and will scratch until open bloody sores result. If you notice the development of sores on your cat, you should call your veterinarian immediately. Some animals will develop an anemia from methimazole. If you notice that your cat is unusually tired, has a fever or shows signs of bruising, contact your veterinarian.

Precautions: Methimazole should be stored in a tight, light resistant, childproof container away from all children and other household pets. If you are administering methimazole transdermal gel, you should wear gloves and wash hands after handling. Owners who have low thyroid function should be very careful when handling this drug and should avoid all skin contact.

Directions: Methimazole is usually given orally once to three times daily as a tablet or an oral liquid. It is also frequently given as a topical gel (transdermal) that you rub into your cat’s ear once or twice daily. If you are using the gel form of methimazole, you may want to wear gloves and ALWAYS wash your hands well after using.

Remember: The successful outcome of your animal’s treatment with this medication depends upon your commitment and ability to administer it exactly as the veterinarian has prescribed. Please do not skip doses or stop giving the medication.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.