Products
Carbimazole is commercially available in tablet form (Néo-Mercazole). It has been approved in many countries since 1955.
Structure and properties
Carbimazole (C7H10N2O2S, Mr = 186.23 g/mol) belongs to the group of thioamidthyreostatics, all of which are derivatives of thiourea. Carbimazole is a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active form, thiamazole, by cleavage of the carbethoxy group. It exists as a white to yellowish white crystalline powder that is very slightly soluble in water.
Effects
Carbimazole (ATC H03BB01) has thyrostatic properties. It inhibits the formation of thyroid hormones.
Indications
- For the treatment of hyperthyroidism.
- Other indications (eg, preoperative preparation for thyroidectomy).
Dosage
According to the drug label.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- TSH-dependent thyroid cancer
- Severe hematologic disorders, especially granulocytopenia.
- Simple goiter
- Liver failure
- Lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include nausea, headache, joint pain, stomach upset, skin rash, and itching. Very rarely, severe adverse reactions such as agranulocytosis may occur.
