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Carbimazole agranulocytosis — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardEndocrine TherapeuticsCarbimazole agranulocytosisGPhC CRA

A 34-year-old woman taking carbimazole 20 mg daily for Graves' disease asks for lozenges because she has a sore throat and fever. She started treatment 5 weeks ago. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Advise urgent FBC assessment and withhold carbimazole pending medical advice

Carbimazole can cause agranulocytosis, often presenting with sore throat, fever, or mouth ulcers. The patient needs urgent medical assessment and a full blood count, and should be told not to take further doses until advised. Treating symptoms alone could delay recognition of a serious adverse effect.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS