Cannabis Against Thyroid Disorder

There is limited research on the use of medical cannabis specifically for thyroid conditions, and more studies are needed to determine the potential benefits and risks. However, some studies have suggested that cannabis may have an impact on thyroid function.

Cannabis use was associated with a lower frequency of elevated thyrotropin (TSH), which is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones. The study also found that cannabis use was an independent predictor for TSH levels below a certain threshold.

Cannabinoids found in cannabis may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial for individuals with autoimmune thyroid conditions, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. 

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis for Thyroid Issues?

A 2017 study titled ‘Effect of Marijuana Use on Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity’ stated that among the study participants, 54% reported having used cannabis at some point in their lifetime, and 15% reported recent use. 

Univariate regression analysis indicated that individuals who reported recent cannabis use had a significantly lower frequency of elevated thyrotropin (TSH) and positive anti-thyroperoxidase antibody (TPOAb) compared to non-users or those who had used cannabis in the past. When controlling for potential confounding factors, recent cannabis use remained a significant predictor for TSH levels below 5.6 μIU/mL (with an odds ratio of 0.344, 95% CI 0.127-0.928, p = 0.04), but not for negative TPOAb.

An analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 2007 to 2012 found that recent cannabis use was associated with lower levels of TSH, but not with thyroid dysfunction. This may be due to hypothalamic suppression of TSH, or it could indicate a protective role against hypothyroidism. However, there is limited human data available, and the underlying mechanisms are uncertain. Previous studies on rodents have shown that exposure to cannabis can lead to suppression of TSH and hypothalamic function. Therefore, while animal data support the possibility of hypothalamic suppression as a potential mechanism, further research is needed to fully understand the effects of medical cannabis on the thyroid in humans.

Does cannabis for thyroid issues have side effects?

The side effects of using medical cannabis for pain, palliative, and cancer care can vary depending on the individual, the method of use, the dosage, and the type of cannabis used. 

It can range from Psychotropic effects like euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion to cognitive ones including issues related to memory, attention, and reaction time. Besides, smoking or inhaling cannabis can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and bronchitis. This can be a concern for patients with preexisting lung conditions.

Cannabis can also cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Key takeaways

• There is limited research on medical cannabis use specifically for thyroid conditions, and more studies are needed to determine its potential benefits and risks.

• Cannabis use has been associated with a lower frequency of elevated TSH levels and is an independent predictor for TSH levels below a certain threshold.

• Cannabinoids in cannabis may have anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit individuals with autoimmune thyroid conditions.

Please note: It's important to note that the use of medical cannabis for thyroid should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as there may be potential risks and side effects associated with its use.