[acdogedoc June 22, 2018 at 5:16 pm Post count: 7]

#1060908

Hello,
I was just diagnosed 3 weeks ago and started on methimazole at 10 mg twice daily. I developed an severe rash and hives at 3 weeks and had to stop methimazole. I am now supposed to start PTU and I am terrified at the possible side effects. The doctor wants to start me on a pretty low dose(50 mg 3 times daily). I am just so scared of liver failure and possible death! Anyone with experience with this? I want to get a thyroidectomy but can’t have surgery until my thyroid is regulated.

[KimberlyOnline Facilitator June 22, 2018 at 5:46 pm Post count: 4288]

#1185378

Hello and welcome – Liver issues are not common, but this *is* an issue to be aware of, expecially since methimazole has a better track record than does PTU.

The good news is that of those who do experience liver issues, the vast majority recover quickly once the issue is identified and the meds are stopped. Potential signs & symptoms of liver issues can include fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, itchiness, dark colored urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes – so if you experience any of these call your doctor’s office ASAP for further guidance.

[acdogedoc June 23, 2018 at 7:55 pm Post count: 7]

#1185379

Thank you!

I was really bummed because I was feeling so good on the methimazole and then severe, unbearable hives started.
I understand that eye disease is also worse if you smoke. I am ashamed to admit that I am a smoker(4 to 5 daily) but I am working hard to quit! Down to 2 daily so far. I have mild dry eye but nothing else so far. Everyone on this page is such an inspiration and I am glad I found it.

Angela

[emmtee June 25, 2018 at 4:15 pm Post count: 148]

#1185380

You don’t need to fear PTU. I’ve met a few people who have been on it successfully. Even methimazole isn’t free of side effects – it’s just a little safer than PTU. Another reason that PTU is out of favor – something that you mentioned – is that you have to take it multiple times a day, while methimazole can be taken once a day. That alone would make methimazole the preferred drug, since patient compliance is really important for best results.

Good for you for taking steps to quit smoking. I’m glad you’re aware of the increased risks of Thyroid Eye Disease for smokers. You should also be aware that it will improve your outcome if you’re able to have a thyroidectomy. Smoking constricts blood vessels and impairs healing from surgery. Good luck with those last two cigarettes.

[acdogedoc June 28, 2018 at 4:16 am Post count: 7]

#1185382

Thank you emmtee! I have been a wreck from this diagnosis but trying to continue looking up!

Angela

[acdogedoc June 28, 2018 at 4:16 am Post count: 7]

#1185383

Thank you emmtee! I have been a wreck from this diagnosis but trying to continue looking up!

Angela

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