Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using methimazole as follows:
- Methimazole use is either contraindicated or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of opportunistic infections. White blood cells produced by the bone marrow help fight infections and offer immunity to the body. Methimazole, by virtue of potential to induce bone marrow suppression, can reduce production of white blood cells, thus increasing the risk for lowering immunity and contacting opportunistic infections.
- Methimazole use is either contraindicated or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of severe anemia. Red blood cells produced by the bone marrow help with carrying and delivery of oxygen to various tissues in the body. Methimazole, by virtue of potential to induce bone marrow suppression, can reduce production of red blood cells, thus increasing the risk for anemia in individuals with history of the same.
- Methimazole use is either contraindicated or used with extreme caution in individuals with history of easy bruising and bleeding. Platelet cells produced by the bone marrow promote clotting of blood and prevent bleeding and loss of blood. Methimazole, by virtue of potential to induce bone marrow suppression, can reduce production of platelets, thus increasing the risk for bleeding and blood loss.
