The efficacy and safety of selenium supplementation versus placebo in the treatment of Graves' orbitopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

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#humans #dietary-supplements #graves-ophthalmopathy #quality-of-life #randomized-controlled-trials-as-topic

The efficacy and safety of selenium supplementation versus placebo in the treatment of Graves' orbitopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Sharabati et al., 2024 | Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) | Meta Analysis

Citation

Sharabati Israa, Qafesha Ruaa M, ... Ayesh Baraa M. The efficacy and safety of selenium supplementation versus placebo in the treatment of Graves' orbitopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2024-Dec;101(6):669-681. doi:10.1111/cen.15128

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Selenium is a trace element crucial for thyroid function, and has potential therapeutic benefits in Graves' orbitopathy (GO). Therefore, we aim to evaluate its efficacy and safety in GO patients to provide valuable insights into its role as a therapeutic option for this condition. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PATIENTS: GO Patients treated with selenium compared to placebo. MEASUREMENTS: Clinical activity score (CAS), Graves' orbitopathy quality of life (GO-QOL), eye symptoms and signs, and adverse events. RESULTS: Out of 1684 records screened, four randomised controlled trials were included. Selenium was superior at 6 months in lowering the CAS (MD = -1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-1.68, -0.85], p < .0001]), improving total GO-QOL (RR = 2.54, 95% CI [1.69-3.81], p < .00001), and improving the visual and the psychological functioning scores (MD = 10.84, 95% CI [4.94-16.73], p = .003), (MD = 12.76, 95% CI [8.51-17.00], p < .00001) respectively. Similarly, it significantly improved these outcomes at 12 months. It also showed a significant decrease in the palpebral aperture at 6 months (MD = -1.49, 95% CI [-2.90, -0.08], p = .04). However, no significant differences were observed in proptosis, soft tissue involvement, ocular motility, and adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Selenium is effective in reducing CAS and improving the palpebral aperture and GO-QOL in patients with GO. Additionally, it is safe and has promising therapeutic implications. However, further research is needed to validate its long-term efficacy and safety.

Key Findings

Out of 1684 records screened, four randomised controlled trials were included. Selenium was superior at 6 months in lowering the CAS (MD = -1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-1.68, -0.85], p < .0001]), improving total GO-QOL (RR = 2.54, 95% CI [1.69-3.81], p < .00001), and improving the visual and the psychological functioning scores (MD = 10.84, 95% CI [4.94-16.73], p = .003), (MD = 12.76, 95% CI [8.51-17.00], p < .00001) respectively. Similarly, it significantly improved these outcomes at 12

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population go
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Graves Ophthalmopathy
  • Quality of Life
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Selenium
  • Treatment Outcome

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
  • Vertical: selenium

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09