Anti-Thyroid Drug Petition

Posted by Elaine Moore Jan 5, 2007

Several recent studies have demonstrated that therapeutic medication dosages are often too high and are based on recommendations from drug manufacturers who profit when higher doses are used. Anti-thyroid drugs, such as propylthiouracil (PTU), methimazole, and carbimazole, are used to reduce thyroid hormone levels and mildly suppress the immune system. While the recommended maintenance doses of methimazole and carbimazole are 2.5-10.0 mg daily (taken in 2-3 divided doses) the smallest pills made contain 10 mg.

Patients on these medications are forced to smash pills and use bits and pieces of their medications. Breaking certain medications can interfere with the absorption of many drugs and cause gastrointestinal distress. And in timed-release medications, breaking pills can easily lead to drug toxicity.

Recent studies show that most hyperthyroid patients, including patients with Graves' disease, can use a starting dose of 10 mg rather than the older recommendation of 30 mg daily for methimazole and carbimazole. And after the first 6-8 weeks of treatment, when the dose of meds is reduced, many patients can be maintained at doses as low as 0.625 mg daily.

For these reasons and in an effort to provide a better service for hyperthyroid patients, a group of thyroid patients from the Graves' disease board at Mediboard has started a petition for drug manufacturers to begin producing a 1 mg methimazole and a 1 mg carbimazole tablet. Because PTU is available in doses more consistent with treatment doses, this petition does not currently include propylthiouracil.

Overall Drug Safety

Patients with other autoimmune diseases should also keep in mind the importance of using the smallest dose of medicine needed. Side effects are most likely to occur when doses higher than necessary are used. It's important to consult with your physician before reducing drug doses and it's helpful to bring recommendations from the Physician's Desk Reference or pharmaceutical websites if you notice that your dose is too high.

Accidental overdoses and incorrect prescriptions are one of the leading causes of death in hospital patients and patients with chronic diseases.

Remember too to empower yourself by researching all prescribed and over the counter medications before taking them. In particular, look for contraindications and adverse effects.

Drug dosage recommendations should also take into consideration: general health especially kidney status; use of other medications; symptoms; body weight; idiosyncratic reactions to medications; lifestyle, and diet.

From the Experts

"All substances are poisons. The right dose differentiates a poison and a remedy." --Paracelsus, 1493-1541 AD

"Quod ali cibus est aliis fuat acre venenum: (What is sustenance to one may be fierce poison to others) --Lucretius, 95-55 BC

To sign the petititon, please visit http://www.petitionspot.com/petitions/tapazole