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Expanding therapeutic horizons: glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitors in poly cystic ovarian syndrome: a comprehensive review including systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Kannan Sridharan, Gowri Sivaramakrishnan

Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome, 2025

1,642 participants · 16 citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine characterized by hyperandrogenism, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic disruptions, leading to reproductive complications and increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. While lifestyle modifications are the cornerstone of PCOS management, pharmacological interventions, including metformin, oral contraceptives, and anti-androgens, are commonly utilized. Recently, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have shown promising results in PCOS management. METHODS: This study conducted a comprehensive review of randomized clinical trials evaluating the effects of GLP-1 RAs and SGLT2is in women with PCOS. A systematic literature search was performed, and network meta-analysis using random-effects model that generated mixed treatment comparison estimates was employed to assess the comparative efficacy of these drug classes on clinical (menstrual frequency, pregnancy rate and proportion of patients with regular menstrual cycles), anthropometric, hormonal, and metabolic parameters. Additionally, a systematic review of preclinical studies investigating GLP-1 RAs and SGLT2is in animal models of PCOS was undertaken. RESULTS: This comprehensive meta-analysis included 27 RCTs (1642 participants). GLP-1 RAs (alone and in combination with metformin) were observed to improve menstrual frequencies. GLP-1 RAs showed significant reductions in all anthropometric…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,642 participants or records.

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