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Semin Reprod Med 2017; 35(04): 326-343
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1603729
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Pharmacologic Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Alternate and Future Paths

Luciana M. Martel Duguech
1   Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hospital Ramos Mejia, Buenos Aires, Argentina
,
Richard S. Legro
2   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Public Health Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
16 October 2017 (online)

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Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder which interacts with other genetic and environmental factors to cause dysregulation of steroidogenesis and anovulation as well as insulin resistance. Treatments which address the long-term effects of this unique combination of reproductive and metabolic dysfunction are needed. Over the past decade, new insights into the genetic factors of PCOS and biotechnological advances have led to potential treatments for women with PCOS. These treatments include both new potent pharmaceutical compounds and repurposed drugs which target different steps in metabolic-reproductive pathways to improve long-term health of women with PCOS. These new therapies target key enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, regulatory pathways of gonadotropin secretion, or lower oxidative stress. We review in this article the current common treatments of PCOS, recent developments in the field, and current information on the mode of action, efficacy, and safety of emerging therapeutic compounds.

Keywords

polycystic ovary syndrome - genetics - new treatments