Alternative treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: pre-clinical and clinical basis for using plant-based drugs

January 2024 in “ Frontiers in Endocrinology ”

Sidra Malik, Saira Saeed, Ammara Saleem, Muhammad Imran Khan, Aslam Khan, Muhammad Furqan Akhtar

polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS androgen metformin clomiphene citrate phytochemicals herbal products

TLDR Plant-based drugs are effective and safe alternatives for managing PCOS symptoms.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects about 1 in 7 women of reproductive age, causing infertility and metabolic issues due to symptoms like ovulation disorders and high androgen levels. Traditional treatments, such as metformin and clomiphene citrate, require long-term use and can have significant side effects. However, plant-based drugs and phytochemicals are emerging as effective alternatives with minimal side effects. This review discusses the aetiology, current treatments, and both pre-clinical and clinical studies supporting the use of herbal products for managing PCOS symptoms, highlighting their safety, availability, and efficacy.

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Research cited in this study

14 / 14 results

Chemical Characterization and Ameliorating Effect of Centratherum Anthelminticum Extract Against Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Wistar Rats

research Chemical Characterization and Ameliorating Effect of Centratherum Anthelminticum Extract Against Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Wistar Rats

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Centratherum anthelminticum seed extract effectively treats Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in rats.

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Women with PCOS often experience depression and anxiety, affecting their quality of life.

research Quercetin and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Current Evidence and Future Directions - A Systematic Review

41 citations , January 2020 in “Journal of Ovarian Research”

Quercetin may help with PCOS symptoms, but more research is needed.

research Hyperandrogenism in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Role of CYP Gene Variants: A Review

49 citations , November 2019 in “Egyptian Journal of Medical Human Genetics”

Certain gene variants may contribute to high androgen levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

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45 citations , August 2019 in “Dermatologic Therapy”

Hair loss treatments work better with lifestyle changes.

research Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Implications for Pathogenesis and Novel Management Strategies

129 citations , January 2019 in “Clinical medicine insights”

Obesity worsens PCOS symptoms, and PCOS may lead to more weight gain; managing both requires a holistic approach that includes mental health.

research Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): An Inflammatory, Systemic, Lifestyle Endocrinopathy

317 citations , April 2018 in “Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology/The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology”

PCOS is a complex condition in women that can lead to health issues, and lifestyle changes are the best management approach.

research Ameliorative Effects of Rutin Against Metabolic, Biochemical, and Hormonal Disturbances in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Rats

40 citations , December 2016 in “Journal of Ovarian Research”

Rutin may help treat symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in rats.

research Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Insulin Resistance, and Obesity: Navigating the Pathophysiologic Labyrinth

222 citations , January 2014 in “International journal of reproductive medicine”

Insulin resistance and obesity are key factors in the development and worsening of polycystic ovary syndrome, and lifestyle changes are important for managing it.

research Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescents

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The document concludes that early diagnosis and treatment of PCOS in teenagers is important for managing symptoms and preventing long-term health problems.

research Evidence-Based and Potential Benefits of Metformin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

343 citations , December 2008 in “Endocrine Reviews”

Metformin helps with menstrual cycles and insulin levels in PCOS but is less effective for hair growth, diabetes prevention, and weight loss, and may improve fertility and reduce diabetes risk.

research Diagnosis and Management of the Dermatologic Manifestations of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

97 citations , July 2006 in “Dermatologic therapy”

The document concludes that accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment are important for skin problems in women with PCOS.

research Recent Advances in the Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

12 citations , October 2004 in “Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs”

Treatments for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) focus on reducing symptoms, restoring regular periods, and helping with pregnancy. Common treatments include hormone suppressors, fertility drugs, and insulin-sensitising agents.

research Definitions, Prevalence, and Symptoms of Polycystic Ovaries and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

278 citations , August 2004 in “Best Practice & Research in Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology”

Polycystic ovaries are defined by having 12 or more small follicles in each ovary and are found in up to 33% of women, while Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormone disorder in women of reproductive age, potentially increasing risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.

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PCOS treatment should be personalized based on its type and the patient's reproductive goals.

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