Anti Thyrox 20mg Tab

ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB

Name

• Common Name: ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB
• Active Ingredient: Carbimazole

Composition

Each tablet contains 20mg of Carbimazole. Other ingredients may include anhydrous lactose, magnesium stearate, and croscarmellose sodium.

Uses

ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB is an anti-thyroid agent primarily used to treat hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland), a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones. It is also used in:

• Managing Graves' disease and toxic nodular goiter.
• Preparation for surgical removal of part of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy).
• Therapy before and after radio-iodine treatment. It works by decreasing the production of thyroid hormones, thus balancing hormone levels and alleviating symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and anxiety.

Dosage and Administration

This medication should be taken as prescribed by your doctor.

• Adults: The usual starting dose ranges from 20mg to 60mg daily, typically divided into two or three doses. Once thyroid function is controlled, the doctor may reduce the dose to a maintenance level, often 5mg to 15mg per day.
• Tablets can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole with water, without crushing or chewing.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Skin rash, itching
• Joint pain
• Changes in taste or hair thinning
• Gastrointestinal disturbances

Serious Side Effects:

• Agranulocytosis: A rare but serious decrease in white blood cells, increasing infection risk. Symptoms include sore throat, mouth ulcers, fever, or flu-like symptoms.
• Liver Problems: Signs may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain.
• Pancreatitis: Sudden severe abdominal pain.
• Severe allergic reactions (angioedema, Stevens-Johnson syndrome).

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to carbimazole or other anti-thyroid medicines.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not recommended during breastfeeding, and use during pregnancy requires careful consideration by a doctor due to potential risks to the baby. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception.
• Liver/Kidney Disease: Use with caution and dose adjustment may be necessary. Avoid in severe liver disorders.
• Blood Disorders: Not recommended for patients with pre-existing serious blood disorders or bone marrow depression. Regular blood tests may be required.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), theophylline, steroids, and erythromycin, as interactions can occur.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight, and out of reach of children. Typically, storage is recommended between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB, which contains Carbimazole 20mg. Carbimazole is a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active form, Methimazole.

What is ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB used for?

ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB (Carbimazole 20mg) is primarily used to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It is also prescribed for conditions such as Graves' disease and toxic multinodular goiter. Additionally, it can be used to prepare patients for thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine therapy by bringing their thyroid hormone levels to normal.

How does ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB work?

Carbimazole, the active ingredient in ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB, is converted into methimazole in the body. Methimazole works by inhibiting the enzyme thyroid peroxidase (TPO), which is crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (thyroxine/T4 and triiodothyronine/T3). By blocking this enzyme, it reduces the production of these hormones, thereby lowering thyroid hormone levels and alleviating symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

What is the usual dosage for ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB?

For adults, the initial dosage typically ranges from 15 to 60 milligrams (mg) per day, depending on the severity of hyperthyroidism, often divided into 3 doses. Once thyroid hormone levels normalize, a maintenance dose of 5 to 15 mg per day, usually taken once daily, may be prescribed. For children, the dose is determined by body weight, starting around 0.4 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into 3 doses. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosing.

What are the possible side effects of ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB?

Common side effects can include skin rash, itching, nausea, upset stomach, headache, joint pain, hair loss, and changes in taste. More serious, though rare, side effects can occur, such as agranulocytosis (a severe drop in white blood cell count), liver problems (indicated by symptoms like yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, or upper stomach pain), and vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels). Hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels) can also develop if the dose is too high. Report any unusual or severe symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Is ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Using ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB (Carbimazole/Methimazole) is generally not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy due to a potential risk of birth defects; propylthiouracil (PTU) may be preferred during this period. However, it may be used in the second and third trimesters if necessary. For breastfeeding mothers, methimazole can be used at the lowest effective dose, as it passes into breast milk in small amounts but typically does not affect the infant's thyroid function or development with doses up to 20 mg daily. Discuss any pregnancy or breastfeeding concerns with your doctor.

Can ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB be taken with other medications?

ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB can interact with several medications. It may increase the effect of oral anticoagulants like warfarin, potentially leading to increased bleeding. It can also interact with beta-blockers, digoxin, and theophylline. Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB?

It is very important for your doctor to monitor your progress regularly with blood and urine tests to ensure the medicine is working correctly and to check for unwanted effects. You should immediately report any signs of illness, particularly a sore throat, fever, chills, unusual bleeding or bruising, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, as these could indicate serious side effects like blood disorders or liver problems. Women of childbearing potential should use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.

What happens if a dose of ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB be stored?

Store ANTI THYROX 20MG TAB in a closed container at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it out of reach of children.