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Effects of drospirenone-ethinylestradiol and/or metformin on CD4(+)CD28(null) T lymphocytes frequency in women with hyperinsulinemia having polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized clinical trial

Moro F, Morciano A, Tropea A, Sagnella F, Palla C, Scarinci E, Ciardulli A, Martinez D et al.

Reproductive sciences (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), 2013

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the long-term effects of drospirenone (DRSP)/ethinylestradiol (EE) alone, metformin alone, and DRSP/EE-metformin on CD4(+)CD28(null) T lymphocytes frequency, a cardiovascular risk marker, in patients with hyperinsulinemic polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial.

INTERVENTIONS: Ninety three patients with hyperinsulinemic PCOS were age matched and body mass index matched and randomized to receive a 6 months daily treatment with DRSP (3 mg)/EE (0.03 mg), or metformin (1500 mg), or DRSP/EE combined with metformin.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: CD4(+)CD28(null) T-cell frequencies.

RESULTS: The DRSP/EE and metformin groups did not show any significant change in the CD4(+)CD28(null) frequency compared to the baseline. Interestingly, a statistically significant decrease in CD4(+)CD28(null) frequency occurred after 6 months of DRSP/EE-metformin (median 3-1.5; P < .01). Of note, this statistically significant association was confirmed after adjusting for baseline values in DRSP/EE-metformin group by analysis of covariance (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: In women with hyperinsulinemic PCOS, combined therapy with DRSP/EE and metformin may reduce cardiovascular risk.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.

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