hyperthyroidism in cat--medication

Question
Hi,
Thanks to your site and you specifically I determined my elder cat has hypothyroidism.  I took her to the vet for the blood test.  My vet wants me to use a topical medicine (he hasn't given me the name yet .  My husband took the phone message) instead of a pill three times a day.  The topical med. I would put on her ear.  It needs to be compounded special at a phaarmacy in a nearby town.  It would freeze in the winter as it sat in the mailbox until I got home from work.  What would you suggest?  Are the oral pills really a pain to give?  Is one medication more effective?  I wanted some information about the choices before I talk to him tomorrow so I can make a better informed decision about Bo's medication.  Thank you for your time.  Ireally appreciate it.

Answer
Cats usually get HYPERthyroidism--over active thyroid.  And the medication used is tapazole or methimazole.  If you can get pills into him, this would be more effective.  The transdermals (ear cream) have not been proven to be as effective and of course, they cost more.  Normally, we start a cat of 5 mg of the medication TWICE a day.  Repeat bloodwork in 3-4 weeks and then adjust the dose according.  The pills are small and you can hide them in a treat or in food if he eats well.  I would not start on three times a day unless his levels don't come down with the standard dose after repeat blood work.  If you can not get pills into him, then I would rather the pharmacy compound a flavored liquied to give.   And if you absolutely can not get any oral medication into him, then we use the transdermals (and they are kept at room temperature and you must wear a glove to apply them).