Metformin for thyroid
First of all, it should be said that yes, metformin can be useful for treating thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. This drug helps regulate thyroid function by reducing thyroid hormone production and controlling disease symptoms.
Several studies have investigated the effects of metformin on thyroid function in individuals with hypothyroidism. These studies have shown promising results showing that metformin may help increase thyroid hormone absorption and thyroid hormone metabolism, as well as improve thyroid hormone levels and reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism in some people.
Of course, the use of metformin requires a doctor’s supervision and regular tests. Side effects such as digestive disorders, reduced absorption of vitamin B12 and depression have also been reported in some people. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking this medicine to make sure it is suitable for your specific conditions. In the following, more explanations are given about this issue.
What is metformin?
Metformin is a drug used to control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes (race diabetes). This drug is classified as an antidiabetic drug in the family of biguanides or biguanide drugs.
Metformin has several effects on blood sugar, such as: reducing glucose production, increasing sensitivity to insulin, reducing sugar consumption in the intestines (intestines and internal organs), weight loss.
Metformin usually comes as oral tablets or injections (by injection) and must be taken under the supervision of a doctor and with his prescription. This medicine may have side effects such as stomach problems which can be managed by consulting a doctor. Also, taking metformin is not suitable for people with type 1 diabetes (autoimmune diabetes) because this drug is only effective in type 2 diabetes.
In recent years, researchers have discovered a link between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells respond less well to the effects of insulin. Insulin resistance is one of the characteristics of type 2 diabetes and can also occur in prediabetic people.
What effect does metformin have on the thyroid?
Metformin mainly affects blood sugar regulation and usually does not have a significant direct effect on the thyroid. But some research has shown that metformin may have an intermittent effect on the thyroid system in certain cases. In particular, studies have shown that metformin may slightly increase thyroid hormone (TSH) levels, keeping them within the normal range.
Metformin reduces glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity in the body. It helps the body use insulin more effectively and is beneficial for people with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and potentially, people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
If you are taking metformin and are concerned about its effect on your thyroid, it is best to discuss these concerns with your doctor. Your doctor can perform thyroid tests and monitor changes in your thyroid hormone levels. If necessary, the metformin dosage will be adjusted by the doctor to ensure that side effects on the thyroid are minimized and diabetes control continues.
How does metformin make the thyroid function better?
Metformin is also used to treat various thyroid diseases, including Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism.
By inhibiting the thyroid peroxidase enzyme in the thyroid gland, metformin reduces the production of T4 and T3 hormones. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that mistakenly causes the body’s immune system to attack the thyroid gland. A Hashimoto’s attack leads to inflammation and gradual destruction of thyroid tissue, eventually leading to hypothyroidism or hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism can include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and depression.
Some studies show that taking metformin may affect thyroid hormone levels. Research in people with diabetes has shown that metformin may alter thyroid hormone secretion and function. One possible mechanism is that metformin may decrease the activity of an enzyme called deiodinase, which is responsible for converting T4 to its active form, T3. Metformin may decrease T3 levels by inhibiting this enzyme, potentially leading to some thyroid-related problems.
Most studies show that metformin has a TSH-suppressing effect in people with overt or subclinical thyroid dysfunction, while this is not evident in euthyroid people. . Metformin appears to have antibiotic properties against various types of thyroid cancer. However, experimental evidence of reduced efficacy of radioactive iodine therapy after metformin administration may limit its use in the management of differentiated thyroid cancer.
A study published in the International Journal of Endocrinology found that metformin treatment in women with hypothyroidism led to improved thyroid hormone levels, decreased TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels, and improved ovulation. Another study showed that metformin treatment in people with insulin resistance and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis improved thyroid hormone levels and decreased TSH levels. These findings suggest that metformin may have a positive effect on thyroid function in some cases.
What are the side effects of metformin?
Metformin is usually prescribed long-term and under the supervision of a doctor. Because its long-term use can be associated with side effects. Common side effects of metformin include nausea, diarrhea, reduced absorption of vitamin B12, and liver disorders.
Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking this medicine. Metformin, if under the supervision of a doctor, can be a suitable option for controlling and treating thyroid diseases, including Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. Of course, it is necessary for the patient to undergo regular tests during use to avoid possible complications.
References
https://www.palomahealth.com/learn/metformin-hashimotos-hypothyroidism#anchor4
Metformin and Thyroid: An Update – PMC (nih.gov)
