Types of Medication for PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is related to abnormal hormonal levels and occurs usually at the time of reproductive years. Consult your doctor if you have PCOS. A woman with PCOS may experience irregular periods or long-lasting periods. They may have excessive levels of male hormones (androgen) in the body.

The most common medications used for the treatment of PCOS include:

• Hypoglycemic agents: These agents reduce blood glucose levels. Some of the drugs in this class include:
  • Metformin
  • Pioglitazone
  • Acarbose
• Antiandrogens: These drugs block androgen receptors, thereby blocking the effects of male sex hormones. They are used to treat hirsutism in women with PCOS. Some of the drugs in this class include:
  • Spironolactone
  • Leuprolide
  • Finasteride
• Topical Hair-Removal Agents: Remove excess facial hair in women. Eflornithine belongs to this drug class.
• Oral contraceptives: Improve acne and excessive hair growth. Some of the drugs commonly prescribed in this class include:
  • Ethinyl estradiol
  • Medroxyprogesterone
• Selective estrogen receptor modulators: Clomiphene citrate belonging to this drug class binds to estrogen receptors to induce ovulation within days.
• Topical acne agents: These drugs are meant to clear acne associated with PCOS

The first line of treatment for PCOS includes:

• Clomiphene
• Eflornithine
• Metformin
• Oral contraceptives
• Pioglitazone
• Rosiglitazone
• Spironolactone

Some of the common side effects of hypoglycemic agents include:

• gastrointestinal upset, 
• lactic acidosis, 
• increase in homocysteine levels
• weight gain
• congestive heart failure
• edema

Common side effects of antiandrogens include:

• increase potassium levels
• nausea
• breast tenderness
• hot flashes

The common side effect of Eflornithine includes mild skin irritation.

Common side effects of oral contraceptives include:

• nausea, 
• headache, 
• spotting, 
• inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot, 
• deep venous thrombosis
• increased total cholesterol 
• low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, 
• blood clot, 
• stroke, 
• myocardial infarction.

Clomiphene citrate can cause the following side effects:

• multiple pregnancies
• ovarian hyperstimulation, 
• blood clot, 
• visual disturbances

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur because of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Some hypoglycemic agents such as metformin and acarbose may be acceptable during pregnancy. However, other drugs may be contraindicated or should be used if the benefits outweigh the risks during pregnancy. You should consult your doctor about PCOS medications during pregnancy.

It is always better to limit your alcohol intake while taking PCOS medication as it may interfere with medications. Always consult your doctor.