Thyroid and Effexor XR

[february]

Has anyone had thyroid problems ( nodules, abnormal labs) since taking Effexor XR ?  I have had a nuclear scan and U/S of the thyroid and lab work done as one of my Dr.s felt that my thryroid was enlarged after a manual exam.  Scan and U/s found many nodules.  I did not have this problem before taking Effexor.  I have been on a low dose of Effexor XR for 3 years to control my hot flashes.  I have read on Wyeth's information literature regarding this medication that this can be a very rare occurence with the medication....I wonder if it is really that rare....?

[donatelli]

A related discussion, hypothroidism - Effexor XR link? was started.

[zippidy]

A related discussion, effexor and its effect on the thyroid was started.

[MarakC]

I have often wondered if my development of nodules on my thyroid have resulted from taking Effexor. I am now, after reading other testimonies, convinced that it is a good possibility. When I brought this up to my g.p....she of course, said it wasn't possible.

I don't believe that to be true and any other information to support my suspicion, would be greatly appreciated.

[soukii]

I have been on Effexor XR since Feb 2006 for depression. I've been diagnosed with hashimotos for over 18 months. In March 2006, Endo did an in-office ultrasound and found it to be enlarged, but no nodules. In Oct 2006 I feel heaviness in my throat. I get an ultrasound and discover I now have many nodules on my left lobe and a 3.4cm partially calcified nodule on my right lobe. After nulcear scan and then FNA, it is found to be papillary cancer. I will be having a total thyroidectomy later this month.

What came first, the cancer or the nodule? In my reading, it seems that nodules grow and then can turn cancerous, correct? Could the Effexor caused my nodules and inturn my cancer? Hmm. Interesting. What do you think doc?

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

I have not seen consistent literature regarding effexor and thyroid -- likely the nodules were there all along or it could be coincidence.  I would be interested in knowing if others have had this experience as this is how we learn the many medications that interfere with thyroid function/size.