Obesity endocrine functions

Thyroid hormones are used either to replace the failing function of the thyroid gland (spontaneous or drug-induced) or to suppress the endocrine function of abnormal thyroid tissues (especially non-toxic struma or goiter or after thyroidectomy for thyroid neoplasms). Although there are abnormalities of the peripheral metabolism of thyroid hormones in some forms of undernutrition or overnutrition, thyroid drug therapy cannot be considered a safe way of treating obesity. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (polycystic ovaries, hjrper-androgenism, obesity, hirsutism, anovulatory cycles, and menstrual disorders) is more common in women with epilepsy. Valproate has been associated with alterations in reproductive hormonal function beginning in the first month of treatment. Serum androgen concentrations increase in patients taking valproate but the profile of hormonal changes is different in women and men (97). Animal studies have corroborated the adverse ovarian and endocrine effects of valproate (98). Four review articles have dealt with this reported adverse event, highlighting controversial views (99-102). 

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