methimazole

Methimazole is an antithyroid medication used primarily to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormone. It is also used as a preparatory treatment before thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine therapy. Methimazole belongs to the thioamide drug class and works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones through interference with the organification of iodine and coupling of iodotyrosine residues in the thyroid gland. This action reduces new hormone production but does not affect existing circulating or stored hormones. Methimazole is available as an oral tablet and requires a prescription.

Brand names

TapazoleNorthyx

Other names

methimazolethiamazolthiamazolumtiamazol