Why have I been prescribed NeoMercazole?

NeoMercazole (Carbomazole) is an anti-thyroid agent. It is used in all conditions where reduction of thyroid function is required.

• Hyperthyroidism.
• Preparation for thyroidectomy in hyperthyroidism.
• Therapy before and aftert radio-iodine treatment.

How does it work?

It reduces the amount of thyroid hormone (Thyroxine) produced by the thyroid.

When and how do I take it?

NeoMercazole is usually taken once a day with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.

What’s the dose?

• The initial dose is in the range 20 – 60 mg and is changed according to thyroid function until it fuctions as normal in order to reduce the risk of over-treatment and resultant hypothyroidism. Subsequent therapy may then be administered in one of two ways.

Maintenance regimen: Final dosage is usually in the range 5 – 15 mg per day, which may be taken as a single daily dose. Therapy should be continued for at least six, and up to eighteen months.

Blocking-replacement regimen: Dosage is maintained at the initial level, i.e. 20 – 60 mg per day, and Eltroxin, 50 – 150 mcg per day, is administered concomitantly, in order to prevent hypothyroidism. Therapy should be continued for at least six months, and up to eighteen months.

Could it interact with other tablets?

Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, prescription or over the counter. Some may affect the number of white blood cells in your blood. Especially tell your doctor if you are taking medications to:

• thin your blood (anticoagulants)
• theophylline for your breathing

Herbal supplements should be used with caution and only after informing your doctor first.

What are the possible risks or side-effects?

Adverse reactions usually occur in the first eight weeks of treatment. The most frequently occurring reactions are:

• nausea
• headache
• joint pain
• mild gastric distress
• skin rashes and pruritus

These reactions are usually self-limiting and may not require withdrawal of the drug.
 

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

• Bone marrow depression including low white cell count have been reported. Patients should always be aware of the onset of sore throats, bruising or bleeding, mouth ulcers, fever, malaise and should be instructed to stop the drug and to seek medical advice immediately.

Can I drink alcohol while taking it?

• There are no known interactions between alcohol and Carbimazole.
• Always ask your doctor/pharmacist however as this may depend on what other tablets you are taking.

What if I’m pregnant/breastfeeding?

NeoMercazole should be used in pregnancy only when propylthiouracil is not suitable, and the lowest possible dose should be used.

If you have any more questions please ask your Pharmacist.

Remember to keep all medicines out of reach of children
Please Note: We have made every effort to ensure that the content of this information sheet is correct at time of publish, but remember that information about drugs may change. This sheet does not list all the uses and side-effects associated with this drug. For full details please see the drug information leaflet which comes with your medicine. Your doctor will assess your medical circumstances and draw your attention to any information or side-effects which may be relevant in your particular case.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbimazole

http://www.nps.org.au/medicines/hormonal-and-metabolic-system/thyroid-hormones-and-antithyroid-medicines/carbimazole/neo-mercazole-tablets

http://www.drugs.com/uk/neomercazole-5mg-tablets-leaflet.html

http://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/n/Neo-Mercazoletab.pdf

http://patient.info/medicine/carbimazole-tablets-neo-mercazole