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Conditions

MEN 2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2)

MEN 2 is an inherited condition that raises the risk of tumors in hormone glands, including medullary thyroid cancer.

Clinician review pending Updated Conditions
DefinitionMEN 2 is an inherited condition that raises the risk of tumors in hormone glands, including medullary thyroid cancer.

What it means

MEN 2 is caused by changes in the RET gene and runs in families. People with it have a very high lifetime risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma, and some also develop tumors of the adrenal or parathyroid glands.

GLP-1 medicine labels list MEN 2 as a contraindication, which means the drug should not be used. This ties back to the thyroid C-cell tumors seen in rodent studies.

If close relatives have had thyroid cancer and you do not know the type, mention it to your prescriber. They can help decide whether more information is needed before starting treatment.

Genetic testing for RET changes is available, and families with known MEN 2 often have specialist care already. Bring those records to any appointment where a GLP-1 is being discussed.

Why it matters

Knowing your family history before your appointment can save time and keep you safe.

Related terms

Clinician review pending. Drafted from primary sources and waiting for sign-off by a licensed clinician (MD, DO or PharmD) before launch. Every number is checked against its source. Drug facts are re-checked quarterly, prices monthly and whenever a label changes. How we review · Report an error