Tapazole is a prescription medication for treating an overactive thyroid, a condition also known as hyperthyroidism. A thyroid is a gland in the neck that produces hormones that controls metabolism. According to MetLine Plus, metabolism regulates how the body utilizes dietary food for energy. In hyperthyroidism, the body produces too much thyroid hormone, which uses energy too quickly, resulting in palpitations, nervousness, heat intolerance and loss of weight. Tapazole, commonly known by the generic name, methimazole, causes some dangerous effects when taken in excess.
Underactive Thyroid
Since Tapazole is used to regulate an overactive thyroid and stabilize its functions to normal levels, an excessive amount of the medication over a period of time will lower the thyroid hormones to levels lower than normal, thus leading to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive and results in fatigue and sluggishness. Hypothyroidism that is caused by an overdose of Tapazole has several symptoms, including sensitivity to cold, dry skin, headaches and muscle pains.
Stomach Problems
Overdose also presents with nausea and vomiting. In excessive nausea and vomiting, important chemicals that regulate the body are diminished. This results in loss of appetite, malnourishment, dehydration and improper functioning of several parts of the body. Treatment of nausea and vomiting may require intravenous fluids and other supportive treatments. Once the excess medication is removed, nausea and vomiting will subside. Overdose also causes severe constipation that might require medical intervention.
CNS Depression or Stimulation
Overdose of Tapazole will affect the central nervous system (CNS) by either slowing down or increasing its function. The CNS controls a majority of the body's functions. CNS depression is when the activities of the CNS are diminished, resulting in decreased heart rate, decreased breathing, sleepiness, vision changes, slower reflexes, uncoordinated thinking and incoherent speeches. In extreme cases, CNS depression can result in coma and death. In CNS stimulation, the activities of the CNS are increased leading to palpitations, restlessness, tremors and insomnia. In excessive CNS stimulation, psychotic disorders can occur.
Swollen Thyroid Gland
A physical symptom of overdose is the swelling of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped structure. The swelling, also known as a goiter, varies from a small, hardly noticeable lump to a big, visible lump. Goiters manifest with symptoms such as persistent cough, swallowing difficulties and breathing difficulties. Treatment for goiter include surgery, radiation and prescription medications. According to the National Institute of Health, if untreated, the goiter may shrink, increase or disappear on its own. It may also cause irreversible damage to the thyroid gland, as well as lead to swelling of the veins of the neck.
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