GLP-1 medications show promise for treating PMOS, a hormonal disorder affecting women

Charlotte Touzalin, a college student from Colorado, was diagnosed with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, a condition that affects roughly one in eight women worldwide. She joined a clinical trial testing weekly semaglutide, a GLP-1 medication, and after ten months reported substantial weight loss, a marked reduction in testosterone levels, and a return to regular menstrual cycles, along with diminished facial hair growth.

Dr. Melanie Cree, who directs the PMOS clinic at Children’s Hospital Colorado, has overseen three studies showing that GLP-1 drugs can improve insulin resistance, hormone balance and ovulation in women with the disorder. Early results published in Fertility and Sterility indicated that most participants lost at least 10% of body weight and saw hormonal improvements. Despite the promising data, many insurers deny coverage because the drugs are not approved for PMOS, forcing patients like Touzalin to seek alternative funding.

Endocrinologist Dr. Rana Malek noted that while GLP-1s can be effective, they are not universally successful and may cause side effects such as nausea. The ongoing research aims to confirm these findings and potentially expand access to the treatment.