There are both short-term, less serious side effects and others that are more serious and will develop over time. Some side effects will go away with continued use of the medication. Other side effects are more serious and may require additional treatment.
Loss of Appetite
Some dogs will develop a loss of appetite when taking Tapazole. This is a side effect that may take care of itself within about two weeks of beginning the medication.
Tapazone Can Cause Vomiting
Similarly to loss of appetite, some dogs will start vomiting when they begin treatment with Tapazole. The vomiting usually begins in the first two weeks of treatment and then subsides with continued treatment, once the dog's body has had time to adjust to the medication.
Lethargy Can Last First Few Weeks
Tapazole treatment often causes lethargy in the first couple of weeks after treatment has begun. Usually the dog will resume their normal energy level once they have been on the medication for a few weeks.
Liver Problems From Extended Use
Liver problems can develop over a longer period of treatment with Tapazole. The symptoms of liver problems will often include loss of appetite, vomiting and lethargy, but it will also include yellowing of the dog's gums, skin or eyes.
Chronic Itch Sign of Liver Problems
Dogs taking Tapazole may also develop a chronic itch. This can be a sign of liver problems associated with the use of Tapazole.
Myasthenia Gravis
Rarely, dogs taking Tapazole will develop a condition called Myasthenia Gravis. This condition is a neurological disorder that causes a weakening of the dog's muscles and can lead to difficulty swallowing.
Allergic Reactions
As with any new medication, there is the possibility your dog may have an allergic reaction to the medication. If your dog develops hives, sudden diarrhea, seizures, shock, cold limbs or if you dog goes into a coma, you should contact your veterinarian immediately and discontinue the medication until your dog has been evaluated.
Medication for over production of dog hormones takes time and patience to be effective. Your dog will need to have regular blood tests to determine if the thyroid hormone levels are within normal range. If the hormone levels are not yet in the normal range, your veterinarian will adjust the medications and continue to do blood tests until the hormones do register in the normal range. This process can take a few months and side effects from Tapazole may change with different dosages.