Thyroid Cancer / Tumors
Users on Reddit discuss a range of topics concerning thyroid cancer and tumors in relation to GLP-1 medications, including new research, personal experiences, and medical advice received.
Experiences and Concerns:
Discovery of Pre-existing Conditions: Some users report that weight loss from GLP-1s led to the discovery of pre-existing thyroid issues. One user shared, "It led me to getting diagnosed with thyroid cancer. I lost enough weight that large lymph node was really noticeable. It did not cause my cancer because there was evidence of cancer years before. "[11] Another user had a similar experience: "That’s crazy about seeing the thyroid nodule after losing weight. It’s crazy how they can go unnoticed. "[3]
Specific Types of Thyroid Cancer: There's a distinction made between different types of thyroid cancer. Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) is frequently mentioned as a contraindication. One user stated, "the main concern is for those if they have medullary thyroid cancer, they cannot take these drugs. I have Papillary thyroid cancer, and my endocrinologist had no problem, allowing me to take Zepbound. "[2] Another user with papillary cancer who had a complete thyroidectomy also uses compounded Tirzepatide under their endocrinologist's care. [5] An endocrine surgeon reportedly "recommends it to those without a connection to medullary thyroid cancer (whether family or themselves). "[4]
Anecdotal Reports of Cancer Diagnosis: Some users anecdotally link GLP-1 use to cancer diagnoses, though these are not medically confirmed causal links. One user mentioned, "I’ve known several people on it. All ended up with cancer. Many ended up with pancreatic cancer, one with thyroid cancer... "[12] Another shared, "My mom... after two years came off then 6 months post using developed thyroid cancer. "[20]
Experiences with Thyroid Nodules/Goiter: A user on Mounjaro for about two years had a total thyroidectomy after a giant fluid-filled cyst and a multi-nodule goiter were found. They had pre-cancerous cell markers (NIFTP) but no prior thyroid hormone issues. [17] Another user mentioned, "I already have a big thyroid nodule, and no family history of MTC. And I’m taking mounjaro for weight loss. "[24]
Concerns with Graves' and Hashimoto's Disease: Users with Graves' disease and Hashimoto's discuss their experiences. One user with Graves' came out of remission after taking Tirzepatide, stating, "They say it's not connected, but I didn't have problems for 2 years & then when I started Tirz I ended up out of remission. "[7] Another user with both Graves and Hashimoto's antibodies had a Graves recurrence while on a GLP-1, but didn't think the GLP-1 caused it. [9]
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
Baseline Screening: For individuals with a family history of thyroid cancer or concerns, getting baseline thyroid checks is suggested. "You should request a thyroid panel and ultrasound for a baseline marking. It'll also help them catch suspicious nodules before prescribing the meds. "[23]
Awareness of Specific Cancer Types: Users emphasize the importance of knowing that the primary concern is with Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC) or a family history of it. "Most doctors say unless you have family history if that particular kind that it’s not a serious concern. "[21] An endocrinologist told a user that "it's not like Hashimoto folks have a higher risk (that we know of) for this type of cancer because it's not papillary (the more common form of thyroid cancer) that they've seen an increase with. "[22]
Monitoring Symptoms: Users are advised to be aware of symptoms like a lump in the thyroid or a hoarse voice and to consult a doctor if they appear. [24]
Risk vs. Benefit Discussion: Some medical professionals on Reddit note that the risk of medullary thyroid cancer is weighed against the benefits of GLP-1s for conditions like diabetes and obesity. "We don't ban GLP1 use because of its risk of medullary thyroid cancer, we counsel of potential risks. "[18] It's also pointed out that obesity itself is a risk factor for cancer.
Experiences and Concerns:
- New Research and Link Discussion: Some users share and discuss new medical information suggesting GLP-1s are not linked to thyroid cancer, or that the risk is low.
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
- Consultation with Doctors: The most consistent recommendation is to discuss concerns with a doctor, particularly an endocrinologist.