Statins cut symptoms of PCOS

Early results from a study using statins in women with PCOS have shown that they can control its symptoms as well as the standard treatment.

Another study has also shown that this hormonal condition may be linked to a shortage of vitamin D. This could mean that Vitamin D supplements may help those plagued by the condition, however it is not clear at this point whether the deficiency is a cause of PCOS, or an effect of it.

A research team led by Leszek Pawelczyk, of Poznan University in Poland, decided to investigate statins as an alternative because PCOS is often associated with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as obesity. He presented results from the study’s first six months at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine conference in San Francisco.

All three treatments led to a reduction in hirsutism, body mass index (BMI, a measure of obesity), acne and testosterone levels. While the benefits of each drug strategy were broadly similar, statins performed a little better for every measure apart from BMI.

Patients in the statin and combination group also showed a reduction in levels of LDL cholesterol, the “bad” form of the fat which is associated with cardiovascular risk. Metformin did not alter cholesterol levels.

Dr Pawelcyzk said the findings suggested that simvastatin was a good option for many women with PCOS, though he cautioned it would not be suitable for those hoping to get pregnant. Statins have been associated with birth defects.

To read more about these studies, click here