Obesity, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and Infertility: A New Avenue for GLP-1 Receptor Agonists.

Obesity and Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are individually responsible for infertility. Adiposity has a strong effect on distinct PCOS phenotypes and it affects the management of symptoms and fertility outcomes. Hellas Cena and colleagues have published a review study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism under the title “Obesity, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and Infertility: A New Avenue for GLP-1 Receptor Agonists“. The summary of this article is given below:

Objectives:

To elaborate on the mechanisms responsible for the development of infertility and PCOS in obesity/overweight women. To focus on the expanding role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) as a therapeutic option for women with obesity and PCOS.

Method:

The review article was developed from the currently available evidence and scientific and medical knowledge about obesity and PCOS.

Findings:

Investigators suggest that there is an underlying pathophysiological link between GLP-1 kinetic alterations, obesity, and PCOS pathogenesis. Additionally, weight reduction was found to be the most significant factor to improve fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Weight loss, testosterone reduction, improvement in insulin resistance parameters as well as menstrual patterns were found with the administration of GLP-1 RA alone or in combination with metformin in women with obesity and PCOS.
Along with lifestyle intervention, the use of approved weight loss medications can be included in order to reduce comorbidities and achieve meaningful clinical outcomes.

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