TLDR Combined oral contraceptives improve skin, hormone levels, and quality of life in women with PCOS.
The document reviewed the effective treatment of skin and metabolic manifestations of hyperandrogenism, particularly in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It emphasized the use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) containing drospirenone and levomefolate calcium, which were shown to reduce acne, hirsutism, and androgen levels while compensating for folate deficiency. A study involving 75 women demonstrated significant improvements in testosterone levels, free androgen index, and homocysteine levels over 6 months. The document also highlighted the importance of addressing insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunctions in PCOS, recommending COCs as a first-line therapy to improve the quality of life for women with hyperandrogenism.
Cited in this study
5 / 5 results
116 citations
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June 2018 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” Adult female acne treatment should be personalized, considering individual preferences and pregnancy, using various topical and oral medications while managing side effects and resistance.
21 citations
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April 2017 in “European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology” Acne is an important sign of androgen excess disorders in women.
1265 citations
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December 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The guideline suggests using specific criteria to diagnose PCOS, recommends various treatments for its symptoms, and advises screening for related health issues.
67 citations
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February 2010 in “Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica” Hirsutism is a strong sign of high male hormones and metabolic problems in women with PCOS, but acne and hair loss are not.
1540 citations
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February 2009 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
14 citations
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February 2016 in “Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research” Blood tests are needed to confirm high male hormone levels in women with PCOS, as physical signs alone are not reliable.
3 citations
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January 2012 in “Hanyang Medical Reviews” The document concludes that more research is needed to create suitable diagnostic criteria and understand PCOS in Korean women, and genetics may allow for personalized treatment.
10 citations
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November 2010 in “Skin therapy letter” Women with PCOS often have acne because of high androgen levels, and the article reviewed how to treat this type of acne.
85 citations
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June 2006 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The document concludes that hirsutism is the main sign for diagnosing hyperandrogenism, which requires a detailed patient history and physical exam.
