Question: I have been taking methimazole for eight years for hyperthyroidism I am worried about taking it for so long. What do you think?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
I agree with you. You should consider other options. Eight years is too long on a drug that may lead to unpredictable and severe bone disorders with little or no warning to you.
Methimazole (commonly known as Tapezol) is an anti-thyroid drug that is usually used for up to two years in cases where remission of Grave’s disease is anticipated or expected. Since many cases do not go into remission, it is usually then recommended to consider radio-active ablation or thyroid resection as curative measures.
Exceptional circumstances may exist where your doctor has determined that Tapezol should continue for more than two years. But you should speak with your doctor about whether it would be wise for you to consider other alternatives.
© 2026 NewsmaxHealth. All rights reserved.