The Role of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women impacting their reproductive, mental, and metabolic health. Insulin resistance is a major driver of the pathophysiology of PCOS. There are several challenges with the management of this complex disorder including insufficient treatment options. Over the past 88 years, multiple hormonal and non-hormonal medications have been tried to treat the various components of this syndrome and there is no FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved medication specifically for PCOS yet. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors have a unique mechanism of inhibiting the coupled reabsorption of sodium and glucose in renal proximal convoluted tubules. This review aims to examine the efficacy and side-effect profile of SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with PCOS. In a limited number of studies, SGLT-2 inhibitors appear to be effective in improving menstrual frequency, reducing body weight and total fat mass, lowering total testosterone and DHEAS levels, and improving some glycemic indices in women with PCOS. SGLT2 inhibitors are generally well tolerated. With future research, it is possible that SGLT-2 inhibitors could become a key therapeutic option for PCOS.