Individuals who take Januvia (sitagliptin) to treat type-2 diabetes may have a slightly higher risk of developing thyroid cancer, which is why they should be aware of Januvia thyroid cancer symptoms. The most common symptom is a lump on the lower-front and center part of the neck. Other symptoms include neck pain, swollen lymph nodes, voice changes, hoarseness, unexplained cough, and more.
Januvia and Thyroid Cancer Symptoms
Thyroid cancer occurs when cells begin growing and dividing out of control in the thyroid gland, which is located in the lower-front and center part of the neck. This butterfly-shaped gland helps regulate metabolism. Unfortunately, many cases of thyroid cancer have been linked to Januvia (sitagliptin), a medication that treats type-2 diabetes. The Januvia thyroid cancer association was identified in a study published in Gastroenterology in 2011.
It is unclear whether Januvia causes thyroid cancer, but due to the potential increased risk, it is a good idea for people who use this medication to be aware of Januvia thyroid cancer symptoms. The first symptoms is usually a lump or nodule in the throat. It may be very small and easy to miss.
Januvia Thyroid Cancer Symptoms
Most types of thyroid cancer are not aggressive, grow slowly, and produce no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, in rare cases, aggressive thyroid cancers produce severe symptoms, including a very large tumor on the front of the neck and problems breathing and/or swallowing. Thyroid cancer tumors are usually removed before they cause serious symptoms.
The following is a list of the most common Januvia thyroid cancer symptoms:
- Lump on the neck: Or a small “nodule” located on the lower-front and center part of the neck. In the early stages, it can be very easy to overlook.
- Neck swelling
- Voice changes: The thyroid gland is located near the larynx (voice box). If the tumor presses on the larynx, it may change the person’s tone of voice.
- Hoarseness
- Throat pain or tenderness
- Ear pain
- Problems swallowing or breathing: Aggressive forms of thyroid cancer can rapidly grow into nearby tissues. Because the thyroid gland is located in front of the windpipe and larynx, it may compress the airway.
- Cough
- Swollen lymph nodes: There are hundreds of lymph nodes in the neck that may become swollen or tender.
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