anti-thyrox 20 tablet - Carbimazole (20mg) medicine

Anti-thyrox 20 Tablet (Carbimazole 20 mg): Complete Guide

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🏭 Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 20, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category This medicine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under specialist supervision. It can cross the placenta and may cause harm to the unborn baby. Alternative treatments may be considered. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for hyperthyroidism.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 20, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers
  • Unexplained bruising or bleeding
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe abdominal pain or dark urine
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Persistent fatigue or paleness

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is anti-thyrox 20 tablet used for?

This medicine is an antithyroid tablet containing Carbimazole 20 mg. It is used to treat an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) by reducing the production of thyroid hormones. It is taken orally, usually with food, and requires regular blood tests to monitor for rare but serious side effects like agranulocytosis.

  • Generic Name: Carbimazole
  • Manufacturer: Macleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 anti-thyrox 20 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा कार्बिमाज़ोल 20 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक एंटीथायरॉइड गोली है, जिसका उपयोग थायरॉइड ग्रंथि के अत्यधिक सक्रिय होने (हाइपरथायरॉइडिज़्म) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह थायरॉइड हार्मोन के उत्पादन को कम करके काम करती है। यह ग्रेव्स रोग, टॉक्सिक मल्टीनोड्यूलर गॉइटर और थायरॉइड सर्जरी या रेडियोएक्टिव आयोडीन थेरेपी की तैयारी में भी दी जाती है। इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें और नियमित रक्त परीक्षण करवाते रहें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट खराब, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और त्वचा पर दाने या खुजली शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एग्रानुलोसाइटोसिस (श्वेत रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी), यकृत की सूजन, पीलिया और गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएँ शामिल हैं। यदि आपको बुखार, गले में खराश, मुँह के छाले, असामान्य चोट या रक्तस्राव हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। कोई भी लक्षण बिगड़ने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें। गर्भावस्था के दौरान इस दवा का उपयोग न करें क्योंकि यह शिशु को नुकसान पहुँचा सकती है। स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएँ इस दवा का सेवन न करें। शराब का सेवन न करें। नियमित रूप से रक्त परीक्षण करवाएँ। इस दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर, धूप और नमी से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 anti-thyrox 20 tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Hyperthyroidism","description":"This medicine is used to reduce the production of thyroid hormones in patients with an overactive thyroid gland, helping to control symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and anxiety.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Graves' disease","description":"This medicine is commonly prescribed to manage Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition that causes hyperthyroidism, by blocking thyroid hormone synthesis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Toxic multinodular goitre","description":"This medicine helps to control hyperthyroidism caused by multiple overactive nodules in the thyroid gland.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Preparation for thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine","description":"This medicine is used to bring thyroid hormone levels to normal before thyroidectomy or radioactive iodine treatment.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis","description":"This medicine may be used off-label to manage hyperthyroidism caused by amiodarone, a heart medication, though response can be variable.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Hyperthyroidism

Also treats: Graves' disease, Toxic multinodular goitre, Toxic adenoma

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Carbimazole
Brand NameAnti-thyrox 10 Tablet
ManufacturerMacleods Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassHORMONES
Action ClassAntithyroid agents-Thyroid peroxidase inhibitors
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Report any fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers immediately, as these may be signs of a serious blood disorder.
3
Keep all scheduled blood tests to monitor your blood counts, liver function, and thyroid hormone levels.
4
Use effective contraception while taking this medicine, as it can harm an unborn baby.
5
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to reduce the risk of liver side effects.
6
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
7
Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially warfarin, digoxin, and theophylline.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Rapid heart rate
This medicine is commonly prescribed for hyperthyroidism, which can cause rapid heart rate.
Likely Use
Unexplained weight loss
This medicine treats hyperthyroidism, a common cause of weight loss.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer. Fever may indicate infection or a serious side effect.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Food may slightly affect the rate but not the extent of absorption. Peak plasma levels are usually reached within 1 to 2 hours.
DistributionThis medicine is distributed widely throughout the body, with a concentration in the thyroid gland. It crosses the placenta and is distributed into breast milk.
Protein BindingThis medicine is approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismThis medicine is metabolized in the liver, primarily to methimazole, which is also active, and to other inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 5 to 6 hours, but the duration of action is longer due to accumulation in the thyroid gland.
ExcretionThis medicine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine, with a small amount in the faeces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 80% to 90%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of therapeutic effect is gradual, typically taking 1 to 2 weeks for initial improvement and 4 to 8 weeks for full effect.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is prolonged due to accumulation in the thyroid gland, allowing for once or twice daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting the enzyme thyroid peroxidase in the thyroid gland. This enzyme is essential for the incorporation of iodine into thyroglobulin and for the coupling of iodotyrosine residues to form the active thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). By blocking this process, this medicine reduces the production of new thyroid hormones. It does not affect the release of already-formed hormones stored in the thyroid gland, so the full therapeutic effect may take several weeks to develop. Additionally, this medicine may have some immunomodulatory effects that help reduce the production of thyroid-stimulating antibodies in Graves' disease.

Mechanism Steps

1
Uptake into thyroid gland: This medicine is actively taken up by the thyroid gland, where it concentrates.
2
Inhibition of thyroid peroxidase: Inside the thyroid, this medicine inhibits the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is responsible for oxidizing iodide and incorporating it into thyroglobulin.
3
Blockade of iodotyrosine coupling: By inhibiting thyroid peroxidase, this medicine prevents the coupling of iodotyrosine residues to form the active hormones T4 and T3.
4
Reduced thyroid hormone synthesis: As a result, the production of new thyroid hormones is decreased, leading to a gradual fall in circulating T4 and T3 levels.
5
Clinical improvement: Over several weeks, the reduced hormone levels lead to improvement in symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

💡 How to Take anti-thyrox 20 tablet

Strength: Carbimazole 20 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Take with food to reduce stomach upset.
4Take at the same time(s) each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless advised by your doctor.
6If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.
7Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult starting dose of this medicine is 20-40 mg daily, depending on the severity of hyperthyroidism. This may be taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. After 4-8 weeks, the dose is usually reduced to a maintenance level of 5-15 mg daily. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is essential to adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician, starting at the lower end of the range and adjusting based on response and renal function.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with severe renal impairment. Consult a qualified clinician for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentThis medicine should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Regular monitoring of liver function is advised.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 60 mg, but doses above 40 mg are rarely used. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Iodine-rich foods
Avoid excessive intake
High iodine may reduce effectiveness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of anti-thyrox 20 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (1-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (1-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Skin rash (Common (1-10%))
Report to your doctor. May need antihistamine or dose adjustment.
Itching (Common (1-10%))
Avoid scratching. Consult doctor if severe.
Stomach upset (Common (1-10%))
Take with meals. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Agranulocytosis (Rare (<0.5%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers.
Hepatitis (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain immediately.
Thrombocytopenia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor immediately.
Anaphylaxis (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek emergency care for swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Aplastic anaemia
Report persistent fatigue, pallor, or infections to your doctor.
Lupus-like syndrome
Report joint pain, rash, or fever to your doctor.
Hypoglycaemia
Monitor blood sugar if diabetic. Report symptoms like sweating, confusion.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Digoxin Major
Theophylline Major
Beta-blockers Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Digoxin
  • Theophylline

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Beta-blockers
  • Corticosteroids

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of liver-related side effects and should be avoided while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to carbimazole or any component of the formulation.","Previous history of agranulocytosis or severe blood disorders due to carbimazole or methimazole.","Severe hepatic impairment.","Breastfeeding without specialist advice.","Concurrent use with radioactive iodine therapy (unless directed by specialist)."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Agranulocytosis: This medicine can cause a rare but serious drop in white blood cells. Inform your doctor immediately if you develop fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers.","Hepatotoxicity: Rare cases of liver inflammation and jaundice have been reported. Report symptoms like yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.","Pregnancy: This medicine can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception and inform your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or suspect pregnancy.","Lactation: This medicine passes into breast milk and may affect the infant's thyroid. Breastfeeding is not recommended unless advised by a specialist.","Thyroid function: Regular monitoring is required to avoid over-treatment leading to hypothyroidism.","Drug interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, especially warfarin, digoxin, and theophylline.","Surgery: Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in breast milk and may affect the nursing infant's thyroid function. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine unless advised by a specialist.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately. In case of severe overdose, hospitalization may be required for monitoring and management of thyroid function.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without medical advice. Inform your doctor immediately if you develop a sore throat, fever, mouth ulcers, or any signs of infection, as these could indicate a serious blood disorder. Avoid close contact with people who have infections, as this medicine can lower your white blood cell count. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine, as it can harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may worsen liver-related side effects. Keep all scheduled blood tests to monitor your blood counts, liver function, and thyroid hormone levels. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to carbimazole or any of its ingredients. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine and are at higher risk of side effects. Dose should be individualized, starting at the lower end of the range. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver function, and thyroid function is essential.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can harm an unborn baby. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before conception. Alternative treatments may be considered. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. This medicine may affect thyroid function and interact with anesthetic agents. Your dose may need adjustment before and after surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding during dental procedures if you have low platelet count. Your dentist may take precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and exercise.
🥗
Avoid excessive iodine intake from foods like seaweed and iodized salt.
😴
Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation.
💧
Get adequate sleep to support thyroid health.
🧘
Avoid smoking, as it can worsen thyroid eye disease.
🌞
Stay hydrated throughout the day.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue. Avoid strenuous exercise until you know how it affects you. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Limit intake of iodine-rich foods.
Avoid caffeine and stimulants that can worsen symptoms.
Eat regular meals to maintain energy levels.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your work involves heavy machinery or driving.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your thyroid function tests and clinical response. Stopping suddenly can cause a relapse of hyperthyroidism.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may require regular monitoring of blood counts, liver function, and thyroid function. Rarely, it can cause persistent blood disorders or liver problems. Prolonged use may lead to hypothyroidism if over-treated, requiring dose adjustment. Regular follow-up with your doctor is essential.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Radioactive iodine therapy

A definitive treatment for hyperthyroidism that destroys overactive thyroid tissue.

Evidence: Well-established
Thyroid surgery

Surgical removal of the thyroid gland, used when other treatments are not suitable.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you have a weakened immune system due to agranulocytosis, avoid live vaccines. Consult your doctor before any vaccination.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually under medical advice. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Carry enough supply for your entire trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with Graves' disease
She was started on this medicine 20 mg twice daily. After 6 weeks, her thyroid levels normalized and symptoms like palpitations and anxiety improved. She experienced mild nausea initially, which resolved when she took the tablet with breakfast. She continues regular blood tests and is doing well.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food can reduce stomach upset, and regular monitoring is key to safe and effective treatment.
👤 A 50-year-old man with toxic multinodular goitre
He was prescribed this medicine to control hyperthyroidism before surgery. He developed a mild skin rash after 2 weeks, which was managed with an antihistamine. His thyroid function improved, and he successfully underwent thyroidectomy.
💡 Lesson: Mild side effects like rash can occur but are manageable. Inform your doctor about any side effects, as they can be treated without stopping the medicine.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts to reduce thyroid hormone production within days, but it may take 1-2 weeks for initial symptom improvement and 4-8 weeks for full effect.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, you should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause a relapse of hyperthyroidism.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: This medicine can harm the unborn baby. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and under specialist supervision. Use effective contraception while taking it.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for anti-thyrox 20 tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be stopped once symptoms improve.
    Fact: This medicine must be continued as prescribed. Stopping suddenly can cause a relapse of hyperthyroidism.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe during pregnancy.
    Fact: This medicine can harm the unborn baby. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and under specialist supervision.
  • Myth: This medicine causes weight gain in everyone.
    Fact: Weight gain may occur as thyroid function normalizes, but it is not universal and can be managed with diet and exercise.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Carbimazole 20 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Anti-thyrox 20 tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Carbimazole","class":"Antithyroid","half_life":"5-6 hours","main_use":"Hyperthyroidism"},{"medicine":"Methimazole","class":"Antithyroid","half_life":"4-6 hours","main_use":"Hyperthyroidism"},{"medicine":"Propylthiouracil","class":"Antithyroid","half_life":"1-2 hours","main_use":"Hyperthyroidism, thyroid storm"}]

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