Pharmacotherapy of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: An Update

January 2011 in “ Fundamental & Clinical Pharmacology ”

Lekha Saha, Sharonjeet Kaur, Pradip Kumar Saha

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diabetes drug with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and insulin-sensitizing properties

hormone commonly taken for sleep aid has some topical benefits for hair

Studysummary This review summarizes various treatment options for polycystic ovary syndrome, noting that while some treatments address specific symptoms, no single therapy fully resolves the condition.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document from 2011 reviews pharmacological treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including oral contraceptives, antiandrogens, clomiphene, letrozole, gonadotropins, and ovarian drilling for various symptoms and complications of PCOS. Insulin sensitizers like metformin and thiazolidinediones are discussed for improving insulin sensitivity and ovulation rates, but their effectiveness in reproductive outcomes is limited. Newer treatments such as melatonin and N-acetyl cysteine show promise in managing PCOS symptoms. Acarbose is mentioned for its potential benefits in reducing insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism, while statins may improve hyperandrogenemia and cardiovascular risks. Despite the range of treatments, none fully address all aspects of PCOS, indicating a need for ongoing research and development of more effective therapies.

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6 / 6 results

research Use of Ethinylestradiol/Drospirenone Combination in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

52 citations , April 2008 in “Therapeutics and clinical risk management”

This review covers the use of combined oral contraceptives, particularly drospirenone, for managing polycystic ovary syndrome and discusses related metabolic controversies without reporting new clinical results.

research Relative Prevalence of Different Androgen Excess Disorders in 950 Women Referred Because of Clinical Hyperandrogenism

352 citations , January 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

This study reported that classic anovulatory PCOS was the most common androgen excess disorder, followed by mild ovulatory PCOS and idiopathic hyperandrogenism, among patients evaluated for clinical hyperandrogenism.

research Health Care-Related Economic Burden of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome During the Reproductive Life Span

414 citations , August 2005 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

This study estimates the total cost of evaluating and treating polycystic ovary syndrome in reproductive-aged women in the United States to be $4.36 billion, suggesting more liberal screening could be beneficial.

research A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of 5% and 2% Topical Minoxidil Solutions in the Treatment of Female Pattern Hair Loss

219 citations , March 2004 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

In this 48-week trial, 5% topical minoxidil was more effective than both 2% minoxidil and placebo in promoting hair growth in women with female pattern hair loss, with notable improvements in nonvellus hair count and hair growth assessments.

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

4809 citations , January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility”

This review discusses polycystic ovary syndrome, emphasizing its broad range of manifestations and associations with risks like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular events, but reports no new clinical results.

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

4025 citations , December 2003 in “Human Reproduction”

This review discusses the evolution of diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome and emphasizes its association with various metabolic and cardiovascular risks, but it provides no new research findings.