Licogliflozin a novel and effective treatment option for PCOS: Study

Intervention strategies aiming at amelioration of IR, such as the use of metformin, have shown an effective reduction of hyperandrogenism in women with PCOS

The dual sodium-glucose co-transporter 1/2 inhibitor (SGLT1/2i) licogliflozin (LIK066) ameliorates hyperinsulinism in patients with diabetes and obesity.

A study was conducted by a group of researchers from Germany to examine the effect of licogliflozin on androgens in women with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

In a multicentre, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, 2-week trial, patients with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) received licogliflozin 50 mg or placebo three times a day (TID). Changes in free testosterone (FT), other androgens and variables of insulin resistance was analysed.

The results of the study are as follows:

• Concentration of free testosterone (FT) did not change.
• Licogliflozin reduced androstenedione (A4) by 19%
• Hyperinsulinaemia was reduced by 70% by licogliflozin.
• Diarrhoea and nausea occurred as common adverse events.
• Dual inhibition of SGLT1/2 ameliorates hyper-insulinaemia and hyperandrogenaemia in women with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Thus, the researchers concluded that Licogliflozin may represent a promising novel treatment option for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Reference:

A study titled, "Licogliflozin versus placebo in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized, double-blind, phase 2 trial" by Tan S et. al published in the diabetes obesity and metabolism journal.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14495