Progesterone + Estradiol for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
Yes, if you are on hormonal medications or medications that affect the reproductive system, you must stop taking them at least 3 months before joining the study.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug Progesterone + Estradiol for treating polycystic ovary syndrome?
Research shows that treatments combining estrogen and progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone) can be effective for managing symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Studies have evaluated similar combinations, like ethinyl estradiol with progestin, which have shown efficacy in managing PCOS symptoms.12345
Is the combination of progesterone and estradiol generally safe for humans?
How does the drug Progesterone + Estradiol differ from other treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome?
Progesterone + Estradiol is unique because it combines two hormones that may help regulate menstrual cycles and improve fertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), unlike other treatments that often focus on reducing symptoms like excess hair growth or acne. This combination may offer a novel approach by directly addressing hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS.411121314
What is the purpose of this trial?
Girls with high levels of the male hormone testosterone often develop polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as adults. Women with PCOS often have irregular menstrual periods, excess facial and body hair, and weight gain. Women with PCOS also have difficulty becoming pregnant. Some, girls with high levels of male hormone will develop normal hormone levels as they grow up. Most girls continue to have high levels of male hormone as adults. In addition, girls with elevated levels of male hormones often have lower fertility rates in adulthood. In this study the investigators will aim to discover the effect of 7 days of estrogen and progesterone on GnRH pulses in girls and women with the goal of understanding how and why some girls and women have higher levels of male hormone and the causes of PCOS. If investigators understand the causes of these disorders, they may be able to better treat them and perhaps even learn how to prevent the development of PCOS.
Research Team
Chris McCartney, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Virginia
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for girls aged 8 to 18 with high male hormone levels, specifically testosterone >0.4 ng/mL or signs of excess hair growth. They must have normal lab results except for those related to high male hormones and weigh over 31 kg. Girls can't join if they've had certain cancers, are on hormonal treatments, pregnant/breastfeeding, smoke cigarettes, or have specific medical conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive estrogen and progesterone to assess the sensitivity of the GnRH pulse generator
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Estrace
- Progesterone
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Virginia
Lead Sponsor
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Collaborator