Therapeutic approach for metabolic disorders and infertility in women with PCOS

• Published in: Gynecological endocrinology 2018-01, Vol.34 (1), p.4-9
• Main Authors: Morgante, G., Massaro, M. G., Di Sabatino, A., Cappelli, V., De Leo, V.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: hyperandrogenism; insulin resistance; insulin-sensitizing agent; oral contraceptives; PCOS
• ISSN: 0951-3590; 1473-0766
• DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1370644

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age. It generally shows with oligo/amenorrhea, anovulatory cycles, clinical o biochemical hirsutism, polycystic ovaries and, in a significant percentage of cases, insulin resistance. PCOS is defined as a multifactorial pathology, determined by the association of many factors: genetic, endocrine and environmental. The first and most effective treatment of PCOS is to change life-style and lose weight. The use of oral contraceptives has been shown effective in reducing acne and hirsutism and regulates the menstrual cycle. For women with severe hirsutism, the addition of antiandrogens to estrogen-progestin therapy has significantly improved the results. In cases of anovulatory infertility, the drug of first choice is clomiphene citrate, followed by low-dose gonadotropins. Recently, insulin-sensitizing drugs have been widely prescribed for PCOS patients. They are particularly effective in reducing insulin resistance and improving ovulatory performance. Besides insulin-sensitizing drugs, natural substances, such as inositol, seems to have good efficacy, similar to metformin with fewer side effects. New substances that could be used include statins and natural statins, such as monakolin, alone or combined with myo-inositol. These substances do not have side effects and greatly reduce the hyperandrogenic component in these patients.