In a nutshell
This study examined the effectiveness of a weight loss pill combined with exercise in treating polycystic ovary syndrome in overweight women.
Some background
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder among young women. Women with PCOS may have enlarged ovaries that contain small collections of fluid.
Obesity is frequently present in women with PCOS and is thought to contribute to infertility. Weight loss has many beneficial effects, such as increased fertility and decreased risk of long-term complications, such as type-2 diabetes and heart disease. However, weight loss is frequently small with lifestyle changes alone and many women eventually regain weight. In these women, the combination of lifestyle changes with weight loss drugs, such as orlistat (Alli/Xenical) might be a useful option.
Methods & findings
This study involved 101 overweight women (body mass index 35) with PCOS and 29 control women who had similar weight but no PCOS. The women followed a low calorie diet and performed 1 hour of moderate exercise (e.g. brisk walking), 3 days a week, for 6 months. Women were also given orlistat twice per day.
In combination with lifestyle changes, orlistat induced substantial weight loss (13%) in women with PCOS after 6 months, and this was similar to women without PCOS (15% weight loss). The women also experienced reduced testosterone levels (18% decrease), a hormone that causes acne, scalp hair loss and excessive facial and body hair. Furthermore, risk factors for heart disease and type-2 diabetes were lowered; blood pressure was significantly reduced, and LDL or “bad cholesterol” levels were lowered by 13%.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that orlistat combined with lifestyle changes induces beneficial effects in women with PCOS.
The fine print
Larger studies are needed to confirm whether orlistat can increase ovulation and regulate the menstrual cycles of women with PCOS.
What’s next?
If you are concerned about polycystic ovary syndrome or other issues mentioned in this article, please discuss them with your doctor.
Published By :
Clinical Endocrinology
Date :
Mar 01, 2014
