[obnursenh]

#1060340

Hello all!

I have been on methimazole for about 2.5 weeks now, 20mg once daily, and have been doing well. I even had three really good days last week, and my labs this week showed some small improvements (T4 down 3 points, T3 halved, TSH remains suppressed). It seems like I am heading in the right direction! New med dose as of yesterday is 15mg once daily.

Figures, this morning I have awakened indescribably itchy from head to toe. I do recall being itchy in the night, actually, but this morning it is out of control. I’m wondering if this is from the methimazole, but I don’t have a rash (except for where I’ve scratched myself crazy). On the other hand I’m wondering if it’s from the Graves since that is a symptom I have had – though not to this degree.

I have not taken my daily dose yet. I am considering calling in to them today. Meanwhile – what do you think??

Thanks,

Jennifer

[Kimberly]

#1182026

Hello – Yes, definitely report this issue to your doctor ASAP. Some patients do have skin reactions (itching and/or hives) to anti-thyroid drugs…but in other cases, this is actually caused by the hyperthyroidism itself. The latest medical guidance notes that for “minor” skin irritation with methimazole, you can keep taking the drug in conjunction with antihistamines. For minor and persistent reactions, switching to the other anti-thyroid drug (PTU) is an alternative – although Methimazole has a better safety track record with regard to liver issues than PTU does.

However, your doctor would need to help you sort out whether or not your reaction is considered “minor”.

Hope you can get some relief soon!

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