Re: Re: Methimazole doses - Elaine

June 21, 2003

Hi ,

When methimazole first came out, the manufacturer reported that once a day

dosing was sufficient, making it a better drug than PTU. It does have a longer

half-life (time when 1/2 of the dose is metabolized) compared to PTU but it's

still short. So taking it once a day gives you a high blood level within an

hour or two. And then the level drops with very little if any left in your blood

by the next day.

By taking your meds 2 or evn 3 times a day, the drug offers protection

(blocks iodide) at a constant rate throughout the day, and it also consistently

suppresses your immune system.

You can make the change at any time. If you notice anything it would be less

ups and downs (hypo/hyper fluctuating symptoms). At 6-8 weeks after being on

this dose, it should be reduced. By then, all the hormone in your gland has

been used up and you just need enough to help reduce new thyroid hormone

production. Best, Elaine

June 21, 2003

Hi Elaine:

Luckily my next blood test is right before the 6th week of the

Methimazole and then I will see the doctor on the 7th week.

I took the first dose of Methimazole earlier the day and then I will be

taking the other 20 mg tonight. I am not feeling very much of any hyper

symptoms because of the Atenolol that I am on. I did though before the

Atenolol took effect after two weeks. I guess that's a good thing. I'm

also trying to find the time to take my supplements at a different times

from the meds because I don't take the ATD together with the Atenolol.

If I get up earlier then I can enjoy breakfast at the right time to

take my supplements. :-)

Thanks,

>

June 22, 2003

Hi ,

Taking your Tap 12 hours apart is the best idea. If you want to take your

beta blocker at a different time, just take it 2 hours earlier or 2 hours later

than the Tap dose. take care, elaine

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