A new study published in Science has found that a compound commonly used to treat malaria may also help manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The research suggests that artemisinin, derived from the Artemisia plant, can reduce hormone imbalances and improve symptoms in women with PCOS.
A Common Yet Complex Condition
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 13% of women of reproductive age. It causes high levels of androgens—male hormones such as testosterone—along with irregular ovulation and a greater number of ovarian follicles. Women with PCOS are also at higher risk for obesity, insulin resistance, infertility, and other metabolic issues.
Study Shows Encouraging Results
The research, led by Fudan University in Shanghai, involved both animal testing and a small clinical trial with 19 women. It showed that an artemisinin derivative helped reduce androgen levels and eased key symptoms of PCOS. Improvements were seen in hormone levels, menstrual cycle regularity, and the number of ovarian follicles after just 12 weeks of treatment.
Dr. Gemma Casals, a reproductive medicine specialist at Hospital Clínic Barcelona, highlighted the importance of the findings. “This research not only shows that the treatment can reverse PCOS symptoms, but it also helps us understand the underlying mechanisms of the disorder,” she said.
Early Human Trials and the Next Steps
Because animal models don’t fully replicate PCOS in humans, the researchers also tested the treatment on women. The positive results in the small group are promising, but more research is needed. Future studies will need to test the treatment over longer periods, in larger and more diverse patient groups—including women with obesity—to determine its full potential and safety.
Related Research at Clínic Barcelona
Meanwhile, other studies at Clínic Barcelona have explored different approaches to PCOS treatment. One recent study showed that bariatric surgery led to hormonal improvements in women with PCOS and obesity—results similar to those seen with artemisinin.
Although artemisinin hasn’t been tested yet at Clínic Barcelona, Dr. Casals noted their team has found positive results using supplements like vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics for women undergoing fertility treatments.
Current Treatments and Limitations
Women with PCOS are generally advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle to manage symptoms and lower their risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Standard medical treatments include hormonal contraceptives, metformin, and drugs that block androgens. These help manage symptoms but don’t address the root cause of the disorder.
That’s what makes this new research so significant. Artemisinin appears to target one of the main drivers of PCOS—excess androgen production. While the early findings are promising, further research is essential to confirm its effectiveness and determine the best way to use it in treatment.
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