How long can I safely remain on ATD Methimazole(Tapazole) before making a decision on a definitive treatment? I have been on meds for 2+ years. No remission and probably moderate level symptoms (insomnia, anxiety, some heart palpitations, muscle cramps, neck feels swollen most of the time. My eyes are dry, sensitive to light but an ophthalmologist at a medical center examined me and said I did not have any additional signs of TED.). Current Methimazole dosage: 5mg once daily, at this level for the past 6 months.
My endo has been telling me two years is as long as he recommends, although when he could see that I was having difficulty making a decision on surgery vs. RAI, he told me I could also hold off for a while longer. However, I am getting sick of putting this big decision off and want to get it behind me. Although, if there is still a chance that I might go into remission, I would continue to hold off. Endo is not optimistic about remission happening to me at this point and feels that Methimazole is not good to be on for longer than 2 years.
Would appreciate hearing about experiences others have had with length of time on Methimazole? Could my symptoms worsen if I stayed on ATD for another 6 months to a year or longer? I have also talked with a 2 women who did acupuncture along with meds and they both went into remission. Anyone else with this experience????
