Anti-Malaria drug could treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, study reveals

In a study published in the journal Science, the malaria drug artemisinin has shown promise in treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) symptoms. PCOS disrupts hormone production, causing irregular periods, infertility, and other symptoms. It is often associated with insulin resistance, which can lead to weight gain and worsen the condition.

The study involved a clinical trial with 19 women suffering from PCOS. Researchers found that artemisinin improved menstrual cycle regularity and significantly lowered testosterone levels, a common hormonal imbalance in PCOS. Additionally, most participants saw a decrease in anti-Mullerian hormone levels, another marker for PCOS, and 12 women experienced restored menstrual regularity after three months of treatment.

Reference: Yang Liu et al.,; Artemisinins ameliorate polycystic ovarian syndrome by mediating LONP1-CYP11A1 interaction; Science384,eadk5382(2024).DOI:10.1126/science.adk5382