Antiandrogens and insulin sensitizers in PCOS management

Minerva Obstet Gynecol. 2025 Oct;77(5):407-414. doi: 10.23736/S2724-606X.25.05822-1.

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine/metabolic condition. Hyperandrogenism and insulin-resistance with compensatory hyperinsulinemia are important features of PCOS. The aim of this paper is to review the rationale of antiandrogens and insulin-sensitizers use in PCOS management.

Evidence acquisition: We include in our research the most relevant scientific literature about the impact of antiandrogens and insulin sensitizers in PCOS between 1976 and 2025.

Evidence synthesis: According to the most recent recommendations, antiandrogens can be a possible therapeutic option to reduce the impact of hyperandrogenism and treat hirsutism in PCOS patients after a period of 6 months of estroprogestins and/or cosmetic therapy without adequate results. Insulin-sensitizers can decrease the levels of insulin in subjects affected by hyperinsulinemia, improving metabolic and hormonal alterations observed in PCOS patients.

Conclusions: Antiandrogens and insulin sensitizers represent fundamental pharmacological therapies for PCOS management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgen Antagonists* / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Hirsutism / drug therapy
  • Hirsutism / etiology
  • Humans
  • Hyperandrogenism / drug therapy
  • Hyperandrogenism / etiology
  • Hyperinsulinism / drug therapy
  • Hyperinsulinism / etiology
  • Hypoglycemic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Insulin / blood
  • Insulin Resistance
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / complications
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Insulin