Methimazole, a medicine that lowers the body’s thyroid hormone production, is an effective treatment. The hormones produced by the thyroid gland control how quickly specific processes occur in the body.
Methimazole is used to treat symptoms like fatigue or coldness caused by an underactive thyroid.
How Does It Work?
This anti-thyroid medication works by blocking thyroid hormone production. Methimazole slows down metabolism, leading to weight loss and fat mass reduction (such as belly fat). Methimazole can help you lose as much as 5 pounds in the first month. The weight loss rate will decrease to 0.5-2 lb per week after the first month.
This medication has been proven safe and effective in treating Graves’ disease. It is also valuable for treating hyperthyroidism (hyperthyroidism), which is an overactive thyroid gland.
Studies have shown methimazole to lower triglycerides, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and increase HDL levels. This will reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Hyperthyroidism and Weight Gain
Thyroid hormone aids in the maintenance of your metabolic rate. Your metabolism is the amount of energy your body consumes and how quickly it burns that energy. Thyroid hormone significantly impacts your basal metabolic rate, which is the amount of energy your body needs to function when you’re not moving.
Excess thyroid hormone is frequently linked to a high basal metabolic weight in individuals with hypothyroidism. This implies that while you’re resting, your body burns more calories than usual, which leads to weight reduction as a typical indication of hyperthyroidism.
When we consume too much thyroid hormone, it’s frequently because our body isn’t creating enough. This implies that a lack of thyroid hormone typically causes a low basal metabolic rate lack of thyroid hormone typically causes a low basal metabolic rate lack of thyroid hormone typically causes a low basal metabolic rate. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can lead to weight gain. Because your body isn’t burning as much energy, you may get a calorie surplus.
Your thyroid hormone levels alone do not cause your metabolism to slow down. Other hormones, how much and what you consume, and your physical activity, all influence it. When it comes to weight loss or gain from thyroid diseases, this implies that thyroid hormone levels aren’t the whole story.
Some people with hyperthyroidism develop weight instead of the usual weight loss. Some causes for this phenomenon could include: hypothyroidism and alcohol are related to each other very closely.
Increased appetite
Thyroid disease, in particular hyperthyroidism, is associated with an increased appetite. You can acquire weight even though your body is burning more energy if you take in a more significant amount of calories. Make sure you eat healthy meals, get physical activity daily, and work with your doctor to create a nutrition strategy. These measures might all assist you in managing an increased desire for food.
Hyperthyroidism treatment
Thyroid disease is an abnormal condition of your body. Treatment restores your body to its normal state. When your thyroid gland is overactive, it produces too much thyroid hormone and therefore causes weight gain. As a result, when you lose weight from hyperthyroidism, you may regain it after beginning treatment. Thyroid hormone production in the body decreases as a result of this.
The most common side effect of chemotherapy for cancer is weight gain. If you gained some weight due to the treatment, it’s usually okay. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor. Your nutrition intake may need to be adjusted as your therapy takes hold. If the side effects of treatment, including weight gain, are too much for you, your doctor can assist you in seeking a new treatment.
Thyroiditis
Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormone levels may be either too high or too low due to this disease. Hashimoto disease is the most prevalent form of thyroiditis. It’s also the most common cause of hypothyroidism.
In uncommon situations, the immune response to Graves disease — the most frequent form of hyperthyroidism — can last long enough to harm the thyroid and induce inflammation. Because of this, it can lead to Hashimoto’s disease and weight gain.
These symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease are just a few of the many signs that you may be suffering from this condition:
- fatigue
- dry skin
- constipation
- depression
If you experience any of these problems, contact your physician. Thyroid hormone replacement pills are used to treat Hashimoto’s disease. Thyroid hormone replacement pills are used to treat Hashimoto’s disease. Thyroid hormone replacement pills are used to treat Hashimoto’s disease. They can assist you in making an accurate diagnosis and receiving the appropriate treatment.
When should you visit a physician?
Most hyperthyroidism symptoms, including weight gain, are typically nothing to be concerned about. If you’ve previously lost a lot of weight due to your untreated disease, this is most likely the case. However, if you’re gaining much weight or have other unpleasant symptoms, this may signal a new issue. Consult with your doctor about finding the best treatment for you.
Weight gain alone is not sufficient to suggest a thyroid condition. Seeing your doctor is still a smart idea if you’re gaining weight and have hyperthyroidism symptoms, such as nervousness, increased sweating, and difficulty sleeping idea. They may be able to assist you in determining the proper diagnosis and therapy.
How Should Methimazole Be Used?
Take methimazole by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 times a day.
The dose is determined by your medical condition and the efficacy of the treatment. The dosage for children is also determined by their weight.
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not increase the amount or frequency of your dose or take it more frequently than directed by your healthcare provider. Your condition will not improve faster, and you will have an increased risk of adverse side effects.
To get the most out of this product, use it on a regular basis. To assist you to remember, take it simultaneously (s) each day. Do not cease taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects of Taking Methimazole
Some of the side effects of taking Methimazole for extended periods can include Mild rashes/itching or other symptoms, such as upset stomach, call your doctor or pharmacist promptly tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if, vomiting, or discomfort. If one of your doctors right away.
Remember that this medicine has been prescribed for you because your doctor feels that your advantages of taking outweigh the risks of adverse effects. Many individuals who take this medicine do not experience serious negative reactions.
If you have any significant adverse effects, tell your doctor right away, including:
- joint/muscle pain
- shortness of breath
- signs of kidney problems such as bloody urine
- signs of liver problems such as yellowing eyes/skin
- numb/tingling skin
- severe abdominal pain
- coughing up blood
The first few months of therapy are when blood-related problems (such as a low number of red cells, white cells, or platelets) can occur very rarely.
If you experience any of the following symptoms of infection, contact your doctor immediately: frequent sore throat, easy bruising/bleeding, or unusual tiredness.
This drug is quite unusual in having severe allergic reactions. However, if you detect any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as a rash, itching/swelling (particularly of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, get medical attention immediately.
Precautions When Taking Methimazole
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or have any other allergies. This product may include inactive components that might cause allergy symptoms or other issues.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if you have: blood disorders (such as agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia), liver disease, or pancreatitis.
This medicine is not suggested for usage throughout the first three months of pregnancy. During that time, your doctor may prescribe you to use another medicine instead. Although this drug is beneficial during childbirth, it should only be administered when absolutely needed during the final six months contact your doctor right away if pregnant. Talk to your doctor about the risks and rewards of using it. re pregnant, or believe you may be pregnant, see your doctor right away.
Methimazole may be absorbed through your skin. It enters breast milk. Before breastfeeding, consult your doctor.
How Methimazole Interacts With Other Medication
Interactions between substances can alter how your medications function or increase the likelihood of severe outcomes.
Blood thinners (such as warfarin), digoxin, and other medicines might interact with this drug.
Can I Still Lose the Weight I’ve Gained From Hypothyroidism and Methimazole?
The answer is yes.
The first and most critical step is to cure hypothyroidism, which means taking a thyroid-replacement drug such as levothyroxine (Synthroid). Your dosage may vary based on your blood work and symptoms. Make sure you take the medicine as prescribed and see your doctor when necessary.
While treating your low thyroid can help you lose weight, it may not reverse the pounds you’ve already gained. Your eating habits and your lifestyle choices might assist.
Although a specific diet or food isn’t able to cure hypothyroidism, here are some ideas for losing weight and improving thyroid function:
Sugar and refined carbohydrates should be avoided.
Diets that are low in glycemic foods, which cause the least amount of blood sugar increase, have been found to aid weight loss. Examples of low glycemic foods include non-starchy vegetables, beans, whole grains, berries, fish, and meat. It’s also a good idea to avoid processed food as much as possible.
Whole foods that are rich in nutrients are beneficial.
It’s critical to get the appropriate amounts of vitamins and minerals from your meals.Your thyroid gland is susceptible to a variety of factors in your diet. Zinc and selenium have been shown in studies to help cure hypothyroidism. Improving thyroid function might aid in the improvement of your metabolism and weight management.
Check your fasting blood sugar levels.
Hypothyroidism has been linked to metabolic syndrome in certain persons, which might indicate an increase in fasting glucose. You may be more likely to develop diabetes and have a more challenging time shedding pounds if you eat too much sugar. Your fasting glucose level is your healthcare provider can order lots of rest by going to bed early..
Sleeping less than the required seven hours each night has been linked to weight gain, and it may prevent you from losing weight. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that adults get at least 7 hours of sleep each night and maintain a regular sleeping pattern.
It’s not only about the calories. Alcohol is also a depressant, so limit it.
Drinking too much alcohol may result in weight gain for some people, according to studies. Reducing consumption might aid weight reduction.
Remove gluten from your diet.
Autoimmune hypothyroidism has been linked to gluten sensitivity, which is known as celiac disease. Gluten-free diets have been shown to aid in the treatment of hypothyroidism in some women, which might aid with weight reduction.
Increase your activity level.
Not getting enough exercise is linked to reduced mental and physical health, so you could avoid gaining more weight if you don’t get enough. At least 150 minutes (75 minutes of vigorous) of moderate-intensity activity each week is recommended by the CDC.
What can I do if I’m unable to shed pounds?
Have you tried everything on this list, and still can’t seem to lose weight?
To begin, make sure your thyroid medication and levels are correct. Thyroid hormones fluctuate over time and you may need to see your healthcare practitioner for a new blood test to ensure that your prescription is adequate.
Excess weight is also linked to a higher chance of developing cancer, so you should make sure you’re not eating too many calories. Keeping track of your calories and what you eat in a food diary has been found to be beneficial in losing weight.
Mineral calorie-tracking applications are available, such as MyFitnessPal, Crono, and LoseIt. This may be accomplished very simply using one of these.
Finally, if the scale still won’t budge after all of this, it’s worth consulting a nutritionist to evaluate your entire diet and recommend the finest strategy for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it difficult to get rid of weight when you have hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism causes fatigue as well as a slowed metabolism, which means you don’t burn calories as effectively,,, and are less inclined or driven to exercise. For individuals who are dehydrated, it might be more difficult to reduce fat. Water retention and chronic constipation can also contribute to weight gain.
If you work with your healthcare provider to overcome these difficulties, you may find yourself better positioned to lose weight.
Is it possible for B12 supplements to assist someone with hypothyroidism in losing weight?
There’s a connection between hypothyroidism and B12 insufficiency, as well as a link between low B12 levels and weight issues.
However, it’s unclear whether this deficiency causes weight gain, and B12 supplements haven’t been proved to aid in weight reduction.Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause tiredness, cognitive difficulties, and other B12-related symptoms.
