January 1994 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” Spironolactone helped reduce excessive facial hair in a woman with porphyria cutanea tarda.
Topical minoxidil helps treat hair loss in teens, but more research needed for safe options.
October 2015 in “Elsevier eBooks” Finasteride helps hair growth and prostate issues but may cause sexual side effects and increase tumor risk.
4809 citations,
January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
414 citations,
August 2005 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Polycystic ovary syndrome costs the U.S. over $4 billion a year, mainly from treating related health issues.
393 citations,
November 2000 in “Archives of General Psychiatry” Testosterone is important for men's sexual function, may help some women's sexual desire, while other hormones and neurotransmitters also play complex roles in sexual behavior.
378 citations,
November 2011 in “Human reproduction update” Experts recommend using evidence-based methods to diagnose and treat hirsutism, focusing on symptoms and underlying causes.
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.
286 citations,
January 2009 in “Human Reproduction Update” Women with the NIH type of PCOS have more obesity and higher risk of diabetes and heart disease than those with other types of PCOS.
223 citations,
December 2010 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” Some patients taking finasteride or dutasteride may have ongoing sexual problems and depression even after stopping the medication.