Improving insulin sensitivity
Approximately 50-80% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance. This means your cells don’t respond well to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels that could eventually result in type 2 diabetes.
Wegovy (semaglutide) was originally designed as a diabetes treatment. It mimics the hormone GLP-1 in your body, stimulating insulin secretion and lowering glucagon secretion to help regulate blood sugar levels. It also delays stomach emptying, preventing blood sugar spikes after meals.
The primary cause of insulin resistance is inflammation in adipose (fat) tissue. Wegovy can suppress this inflammation, thereby improving insulin sensitivity. Additionally, losing weight can improve insulin resistance overall.
In a study, PCOS patients using semaglutide had lower blood sugar levels and significantly improved insulin sensitivity compared to those using a placebo. However, not all studies report the same results, as insulin sensitivity can vary depending on individual responses.
Additional benefits of improved insulin sensitivity include lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
Weight management
At least 50% of women with PCOS also struggle with obesity. This increases their risk of conditions like sleep apnea, heart disease, and diabetes, and can worsen PCOS symptoms. Women with PCOS and obesity who have difficulty losing weight may find it easier with Wegovy. It helps you feel fuller longer after eating, which can aid in weight loss.
For women with PCOS who have struggled to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone, Wegovy has been shown to be an effective treatment. After six months of using 0.5mg of semaglutide, women lost an average of 11.5kg (25.4lbs). They also saw improvements in blood glucose levels and menstrual cycles.
Bringing your BMI closer to a healthy range can also reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, and improve fertility.
Hormone regulation
Hormonal imbalance, particularly high levels of androgens like testosterone, is a hallmark of PCOS. This can lead to acne, hirsutism, ovarian cysts, and irregular periods.
GLP-1 RAs may help regulate androgen levels. In one study, women with PCOS who used liraglutide (another GLP-1 RA) saw a reduction in androgen levels by the end of the trial.
Regulating hormones can also make weight loss easier and improve fertility.
