Semaglutide for PCOS: A comprehensive guide to benefits, risks, and what you need to know

About five million women in the U.S. have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder with symptoms like irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, acne, and extra body hair. Up to 88% are also overweight or have obesity, which can cause other serious health issues.

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used to treat type 2 diabetes and help with weight loss. It’s available under the brand names Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in obese and overweight patients. Ozempic and Rybelsus are prescription drugs approved for adults with type 2 diabetes.

PCOS is closely linked to insulin resistance, obesity, hormonal imbalance, and chronic inflammation, all areas where semaglutide shows strong benefits. Although originally developed for type 2 diabetes and later approved for obesity, semaglutide’s ability to promote weight loss, lower insulin levels, and improve metabolic health has sparked significant interest in its use for PCOS.

Navigating PCOS can be challenging. Find out how semaglutide is emerging as a potential treatment option for PCOS symptoms like weight gain and insulin resistance.

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age (who menstruate). It can start as early as the teenage years and may continue into adulthood if not properly managed.

PCOS is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, oily skin, acne, and weight gain or obesity. PCOS is also one of the main causes of infertility and can significantly impact the quality of life.

The exact cause of PCOS isn’t fully known, but it’s often connected to insulin resistance. This means the body doesn’t use insulin properly, causing higher blood sugar levels. As a result, it can lead to weight gain and make it harder to lose weight, which can make PCOS symptoms worse.

In the past, diagnosing PCOS was difficult because the rules for diagnosis kept changing until an international guideline was set in 2018.

Key symptoms of PCOS

Common symptoms of PCOS:

• Infrequent, irregular, prolonged, or missed periods
• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back)
• Severe acne
• Male-pattern baldness or thinning of hair
• Enlarged ovaries containing numerous small fluid-filled sacs (follicles)
• Difficulty losing weight
• Accumulation of fat, particularly around the abdomen (pear-shaped obesity)
• Elevated blood sugar levels
• Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
• Darkening of the skin in the neck, groin, and underneath the breasts (acanthosis nigricans)
• Skin tags
• Difficulty getting pregnant due to irregular ovulation or anovulation (lack of ovulation)
• Anxiety and depression
• Mood swings

Women with PCOS are more likely to have health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea, stroke, and endometrial cancer.

Connection to semaglutide

Semaglutide might help with weight loss in people with PCOS, but it’s not that simple.

In 2023, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine said that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic can be considered for adults with PCOS who are of higher weight, along with healthy lifestyle changes. This is a “consensus recommendation,” meaning experts agree it may help, but more research is still needed, especially for PCOS.

GLP-1 medications help people with obesity lose weight, and losing weight often leads to fewer PCOS symptoms. A review of 26 studies showed that GLP-1s can improve things like blood sugar control and period regularity in people with PCOS.

What is semaglutide and how does it work?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it works like a natural hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor. This hormone helps control blood sugar and appetite.

Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps control blood glucose by releasing insulin when you eat, lowering blood sugar. GLP-1 also slows down how fast food moves through your stomach (gastric emptying), making you feel full longer, and helps control appetite by lowering blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss.

Semaglutide helps control hunger by activating parts of the brain that regulate appetite. This makes you feel fuller and less hungry, helping you make healthier food choices and eat fewer calories. It also slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, making you feel full longer and reducing cravings.

Here’s how semaglutide helps:

• Increases insulin secretion: Semaglutide helps your body release more insulin after meals to lower blood sugar.
• Reduces glucagon release: Lowers the amount of glucagon, a hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood sugar.
• Slow down gastric emptying: Semaglutide slows down the digestion process, so you feel full longer and eat less.
• Reduces appetite: It helps reduce hunger by acting on the brain, which can help further with weight loss.

History of GLP-1 medications

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is an incretin hormone that enhances insulin secretion in response to meals. Synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic this hormone, helping lower blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite.

Among them, semaglutide stands out for its versatility, potency, and groundbreaking oral and injection formulations.

They were originally developed for type 2 diabetes, but many have since been approved for weight management.

Here’s an overview of the timeline of FDA approvals for GLP-1 medications:

How semaglutide works for PCOS

Semaglutide helps lower blood sugar, slow down digestion, and can lead to weight loss. These effects may be helpful for people with PCOS, since the condition is often linked to insulin resistance and weight gain. By helping the body use insulin better and supporting weight loss, Ozempic may ease some PCOS symptoms.

Weight loss

Managing weight is one of the biggest challenges for women with PCOS. Gaining extra weight can make insulin resistance worse and lead to more severe symptoms. Semaglutide helps with weight loss by reducing hunger and helping people eat less. In studies, people taking semaglutide lost up to 14.9% of their body weight, much more than those who took the placebo.

Having a larger body size is both a risk factor and a symptom for health risks associated with PCOS. Even reducing weight by 5% can have a meaningful impact on PCOS and its related symptoms.

Improves insulin sensitivity

Improving how your body responds to insulin is very important for managing PCOS. Semaglutide helps your body use insulin better, which lowers blood sugar levels and reduces the chance of getting type 2 diabetes. Better insulin sensitivity can also help make your periods more regular and reduce other PCOS symptoms.

Enhances cardiovascular health

Women with PCOS have a higher risk of heart problems because of things like weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Semaglutide can help improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation in the body. This may lower the risk of heart disease linked to PCOS.

Effects on hormonal imbalances

PCOS often causes high levels of androgens, like testosterone, which can lead to symptoms like acne, hair thinning, and unwanted hair growth. Semaglutide may help lower these hormone levels by improving insulin resistance and supporting weight loss. This can lead to more balanced hormones and a reduction in these symptoms.

Using semaglutide as part of your PCOS treatment

If you’re thinking about using semaglutide to help manage your PCOS, it’s important to work closely with your doctor. Here are some easy steps to follow:

• Talk to your doctor: Before starting semaglutide, have a full discussion with your doctor about your health history, current medications, and any other conditions. They’ll help decide if semaglutide is right for you and explain the possible benefits and side effects.
• Make healthy lifestyle modifications: Semaglutide works best when combined with healthy habits. Eating well, exercising regularly, and managing stress can help you feel better and get the most out of the medication.
• Go for regular check-ups: Your doctor will need to check how you’re doing on semaglutide, adjust your dose if needed, and watch for any side effects. Keep up with these visits to make sure the treatment is safe and working well.
• Get support and stay informed: Dealing with PCOS isn’t easy, but you’re not alone. Look for support from your healthcare team, support groups, or trusted resources to stay motivated and learn more about your condition.

Benefits of semaglutide for PCOS

Here are a few benefits of semaglutide for PCOS

Weight loss and fat reduction

Weight management is a major challenge in women with PCOS, due to underlying insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic dysfunction. Many women with PCOS struggle to lose weight despite diet and exercise. In this context, semaglutide has emerged as a promising therapeutic option.

Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that semaglutide can significantly reduce body weight and visceral fat in women with PCOS, even in those who have not responded well to traditional lifestyle interventions or medications like metformin.

In a 2021 pilot study, overweight or obese PCOS patients were treated with semaglutide 1.0 mg weekly. After 12 weeks, average weight loss was 7.6 kg (around 16.7 lbs), nearly 90% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight, and reductions in waist circumference and visceral fat were also noted.

A 2023 study evaluated semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly in obese women with PCOS and found that the average weight loss exceeded 12% of initial body weight over 6 months, while participants showed improved insulin sensitivity and menstrual regularity, and many also experienced reduced hirsutism and androgen levels.

Even modest weight loss (5–10%) in PCOS can lead to improvements in ovulation, fertility, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. Semaglutide not only supports greater weight loss than many traditional therapies but also targets fat redistribution, especially visceral fat, which plays a key role in metabolic complications.

Improved insulin sensitivity

Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, affecting up to 70% of women with the condition. It contributes not only to weight gain and difficulty losing weight but also to high androgen levels, irregular menstrual cycles, and fertility issues. Semaglutide improves insulin sensitivity by lowering insulin and blood sugar levels, which helps reduce androgen production and restore hormonal balance.

In women with PCOS, these mechanisms lead to:

• Reduced fasting insulin levels
• Improved insulin sensitivity at the cellular level
• Lower circulating insulin, which in turn lowers ovarian androgen production (insulin promotes androgen production in the ovaries)

As insulin sensitivity improves, blood sugar levels stabilize, which is essential for managing PCOS-related symptoms. Lower blood sugar reduces the body’s demand for insulin, and with less circulating insulin, the ovaries produce less testosterone. This leads to a reduction in androgen-related symptoms such as acne and hirsutism.

Additionally, more stable insulin levels support the restoration of regular ovulation and menstrual cycles. Over time, improved metabolic control also lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, both of which are more common in women with PCOS.

Reduction in androgen levels

One of the key benefits of semaglutide in PCOS is its ability to reduce androgen levels, particularly testosterone. High levels of androgens are responsible for many common PCOS symptoms such as acne, excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), and irregular menses.

By improving insulin sensitivity and lowering insulin levels, semaglutide indirectly reduces ovarian testosterone production. As testosterone levels drop, many women notice visible improvements in skin clarity and a reduction in unwanted hair growth. This hormonal shift also supports a more regular menstrual cycle and overall hormonal balance.

Potential improvement in fertility and menstrual regularity

In PCOS, excess weight and insulin resistance disrupt the delicate hormonal balance needed for regular ovulation. High insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens (like testosterone), which can interfere with the normal menstrual cycle and prevent eggs from maturing and releasing properly.

Semaglutide promotes weight loss and improves insulin sensitivity, which helps rebalance reproductive hormones. As insulin and androgen levels drop, many women experience more regular menstrual cycles, a sign that ovulation may be occurring more consistently.

Several real-world cases have reported improved fertility in women taking semaglutide, even those who previously struggled to conceive. This has led to the popular term “Ozempic babies,” referring to unexpected pregnancies during or after treatment. While encouraging, this effect should be approached with caution; semaglutide is not approved as a fertility drug, and it should not be used during pregnancy due to potential risks.

By targeting the metabolic root of PCOS, semaglutide may help restore natural ovulation and improve fertility outcomes in some women.

Other potential benefits

Beyond weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity, semaglutide offers several additional health benefits that may be especially helpful for women with PCOS:

• Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes: By improving blood sugar control and promoting weight loss, semaglutide significantly lowers the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes, an important consideration for many women with PCOS who have insulin resistance or prediabetes.
• Improved liver health: Semaglutide may help reduce the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is more common in people with obesity and PCOS. It can decrease liver fat and inflammation, improving overall liver function.
• Lower chronic inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is common in PCOS and contributes to metabolic complications. Semaglutide has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers, which may support long-term metabolic and cardiovascular health.
• Cardiovascular protection: Studies show semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic) reduces the risk of cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack, especially in people with type 2 diabetes or obesity.
• Better lipid profile: Semaglutide improves how the body handles fat by lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are often elevated in women with PCOS.
• Hormonal regulation beyond insulin: Some studies suggest that semaglutide may also help rebalance reproductive hormones, contributing to improved menstrual health, reduced androgens, and better overall endocrine function.

Semaglutide vs. metformin for PCOS

When managing PCOS, treatment is often tailored to individual needs. Medications like semaglutide and metformin are commonly considered for improving insulin resistance and helping with weight management. Here’s how they compare:

Semaglutide vs. other GLP-1 medications for PCOS

Here’s a clear and simple comparison of Semaglutide vs. other GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro) for managing PCOS symptoms like weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances:

Semaglutide vs. lifestyle changes alone for PCOS

When managing PCOS, lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and good sleep are the foundation of treatment. These habits help improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and balance hormones over time.

However, for many women, especially those who struggle with obesity or insulin resistance, these changes alone may not lead to noticeable improvements. This is where semaglutide can make a difference. When added to a healthy lifestyle, semaglutide has been shown to enhance weight loss, improve insulin sensitivity more quickly, and may help reduce symptoms like irregular periods and high androgen levels.

While semaglutide can be very effective, it works best when used alongside lifestyle changes, not as a replacement. It’s also important to understand that stopping semaglutide without continuing healthy habits may result in weight regain.

Overall, the most successful approach to managing PCOS often includes both lifestyle improvements and, when appropriate, medications like semaglutide, all under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Semaglutide dosage and administration for PCOS

Although semaglutide is not officially approved for PCOS, doctors may prescribe it off-label, often using similar dosing as for weight loss or type 2 diabetes.

• Starting dose: Most people begin with 0.25 mg once a week for the first 4 weeks to help the body adjust and reduce side effects like nausea.
• Maintenance dose: The dose is gradually increased, usually to 1 mg or 2 mg weekly, depending on how your body responds and your treatment goals. For weight loss, some may increase to 2.4 mg weekly (Wegovy formulation).

Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) comes as pre-filled subcutaneous weekly injections that are injected under the skin of your stomach (abdomen), thigh, or upper arm. Both medications are injected once per week on the same day of the week and can be taken with or without food.

How long before seeing results?

You may start to notice some changes, like reduced appetite or a few pounds lost, within the first few weeks of taking semaglutide. However, significant improvements like noticeable weight loss, better insulin sensitivity, or more regular periods usually take 2 to 3 months or longer.

• Week 1–4: Appetite may decrease, and some people notice early weight changes.
• Month 2–3: Gradual weight loss, improved energy, and possible changes in blood sugar.
• Month 3–6+: Better insulin sensitivity, more regular periods, and a reduction in other PCOS symptoms.

Everyone’s body is different. Be patient and consistent with your medication, healthy eating, exercise, and regular check-ins with your doctor for the best results.

Potential side effects and risks

Like any medicine, semaglutide can cause side effects.

The most common side effects of semaglutide are gastrointestinal, including:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Bloating
• Belching
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Tiredness

Serious side effects and risks

Semaglutide can cause serious side effects such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallbladder problems, changes in vision (diabetic retinopathy), allergic reactions, and kidney problems or kidney failure.

Semaglutide can also cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if you are taking other diabetes medications. Over time, this can lead to episodes of hypoglycemia, which need careful management, so monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.

Semaglutide has a black box warning from the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) for the risk of thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

It is essential to be aware of these potential side effects and seek medical advice from your healthcare professional if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Who should not take semaglutide?

Semaglutide is not safe for everyone. You should avoid taking it if you have any of the following:

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (a rare type of thyroid cancer)
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Allergic reaction to semaglutide or any of its ingredients
• Type 1 diabetes (semaglutide is not approved for this condition)
• Severe stomach or digestive problems, such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
• Currently pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, unless your doctor advises otherwise

Always tell your doctor about your personal and family medical history before starting semaglutide. This helps them decide if it’s the right and safe choice for you.

Pregnancy and semaglutide

If you’re planning to get pregnant, it’s very important to stop taking semaglutide well before trying to conceive. The effects of semaglutide on a developing baby are not fully known, so it’s strongly recommended to discontinue the medication at least 2 months before conception.

If pregnancy is part of your plans:

• Discuss it early with your doctor so they can help you safely stop semaglutide
• Your provider may adjust your semaglutide treatment plan and explore safer options for managing PCOS symptoms during this time
• It’s also important to check your blood sugar and hormone levels regularly while transitioning off the medication

If you’re taking semaglutide and thinking about pregnancy, always speak with your healthcare provider first. They’ll guide you on when and how to stop the medication safely to protect both your health and your future baby.

Who should consider semaglutide for PCOS?

Semaglutide isn’t for everyone with PCOS, but it can be a helpful option for certain individuals. Here’s how to know if it might be right for you:

You may be a good fit for semaglutide if you:

• Have PCOS and are struggling with weight gain or obesity
• Have insulin resistance or prediabetes, which are common in PCOS
• Have tried lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, but still need extra support
• Want to improve symptoms like irregular periods, excess hair growth, or fertility issues linked to metabolic imbalances

Semaglutide may help improve these symptoms by lowering blood sugar, supporting weight loss, and balancing hormones.

You should consider speaking with your doctor about semaglutide if:

• Your PCOS symptoms are not improving with lifestyle changes alone
• You’ve been diagnosed with insulin resistance or are gaining weight despite efforts
• You’re interested in exploring medication options for symptom relief or weight loss
• You’re planning for pregnancy, but need to first manage metabolic health

How to access the semaglutide for PCOS?

If you’re considering semaglutide to help manage PCOS, here’s what you need to know about getting started:

Talk to a healthcare provider

Start by consulting with a qualified medical professional, such as an endocrinologist (hormone specialist), OB/GYN (especially if you’re dealing with irregular periods or fertility issues), or your primary care provider (PCP).

These experts can evaluate your symptoms, health history, and treatment goals to see if semaglutide is a good fit for you.

Importance of a thorough evaluation

Before prescribing semaglutide, your doctor will review your medical history and current medications, check for any conditions that may make semaglutide unsafe (like thyroid issues), and assess whether weight and insulin resistance are contributing to your PCOS symptoms

This helps ensure the treatment plan is safe and personalized to your needs.

Insurance coverage considerations

Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, not specifically for PCOS.

Insurance usually covers it only for type 2 diabetes or if you meet strict weight and body mass index (BMI) criteria. PCOS alone typically doesn’t qualify for coverage unless you have other related conditions.

Out-of-pocket costs

If insurance doesn’t cover it, semaglutide can be expensive, often costing $900 or more per month without insurance. This makes cost an important factor for many PCOS patients considering this option.

Look into savings options

To lower the cost, you can explore:

• Manufacturer savings cards: Ozempic and Wegovy both offer discount programs for eligible patients.
• Patient assistance programs: Novo Nordisk’s patient assistance program (PAP) provides free Ozempic and Rybelsus to eligible individuals. The program is completely free for those who qualify.
• Compounded semaglutide: Available in customized formulations through specialty compounding pharmacies (be sure it’s from a reputable source and approved by your doctor)

Is semaglutide right for you?

Deciding if semaglutide is a good choice for managing your PCOS should be done with your doctor who may consider the following factors:

• Your overall health: If you have other health issues or take other medications, your doctor will assess if semaglutide is safe for you.
• Your PCOS symptoms: Semaglutide may help the most if you have trouble with weight gain or insulin resistance.
• Your lifestyle and comfort: Semaglutide is taken as a weekly injection. Consider whether this fits well with your daily routine and what you’re comfortable with.

Semaglutide can be a helpful option for women with PCOS. It supports weight loss, improves how your body uses insulin, and helps your heart stay healthy. When used along with healthy lifestyle changes and regular check-ups, semaglutide can make it easier to manage PCOS symptoms and feel better overall.

FAQs

Can semaglutide cure PCOS?

No, semaglutide cannot cure PCOS. However, it can help manage symptoms like weight gain and insulin resistance, making the condition easier to live with.

Is Ozempic FDA-approved for PCOS?

No, Ozempic is not FDA-approved for treating PCOS. However, some doctors may prescribe it “off-label” to help manage symptoms like weight gain and insulin resistance.

How quickly can semaglutide work for PCOS?

Semaglutide may start showing results like reduced appetite and some weight loss within the first few weeks. However, it can take a few months to see more significant changes in PCOS symptoms like more regular periods or better insulin levels.

Can I take Ozempic and metformin together for PCOS?

Yes, you can take Ozempic and metformin together for PCOS, and many doctors often prescribe both. They work in different ways and can support each other to improve insulin resistance and help with weight loss.

What happens if I stop taking semaglutide?

If you stop taking semaglutide, you may start to feel hungrier again and could regain some of the weight you lost. That’s why it’s important to keep up with healthy eating and regular exercise to maintain the results.

Is semaglutide safe for adolescents with PCOS?

Semaglutide is not officially approved for adolescents with PCOS, but early research shows it may help in some cases. It should only be used under close medical supervision if a doctor thinks it’s the right choice.

Can semaglutide help with PCOS?

Semaglutide may help some people with PCOS by improving insulin resistance, reducing weight, and lowering testosterone levels. While it’s not approved specifically for PCOS, doctors sometimes use it off-label to manage symptoms.

How much weight can I lose with semaglutide for PCOS?

People with PCOS taking semaglutide may lose around 10–15% of their body weight over several months, especially when combined with healthy eating and exercise. Results can vary from person to person.

Will insurance cover semaglutide for PCOS?

Insurance may not cover semaglutide for PCOS because it’s not FDA-approved for that condition. Coverage is more likely if you have type 2 diabetes or obesity with a BMI above a certain level, and your doctor prescribes it for weight management.

Can I take semaglutide if I’m trying to conceive?

It’s not recommended to take semaglutide if you’re trying to get pregnant, as its safety in pregnancy is not well known. Most doctors advise stopping it at least 2 months before trying to conceive.

How does semaglutide compare to Ozempic for the treatment of PCOS?

Semaglutide and Ozempic are the same medicine. Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide used to treat type 2 diabetes. Both may help with PCOS symptoms like weight gain and insulin resistance, even though they aren’t officially approved for PCOS.

Semaglutide in a holistic PCOS management plan

Semaglutide can be a powerful tool in managing PCOS, but it’s not a cure or a one-size-fits-all solution. For the best results, it should be part of a broader, well-balanced approach that includes healthy lifestyle habits.

Lifestyle changes

Eating a balanced diet is key to managing PCOS symptoms. Focus on:

• Whole foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats
• Complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oat,s instead of refined carbs
• Limiting processed sugars, especially from sugary drinks, candies, pastries, and white bread

These changes help balance blood sugar, support weight loss, and reduce inflammation.

Staying active helps improve insulin sensitivity, manage weight, and boost mood. Try a mix of:

• Cardio (walking, swimming, dancing)
• Strength training (bodyweight exercises or light weights)
• Mind-body workouts (yoga or Pilates)

Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week.

Drinking enough water supports digestion, energy, and overall health. Aim for about 8–10 glasses per day, more if you’re physically active or in a hot climate.

Stress and poor sleep can worsen hormone imbalances in PCOS. Helpful strategies include:

• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing
• Keeping a regular sleep schedule and aiming for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night
• Limiting screen time before bed to improve sleep quality

Other medications

Managing PCOS often requires a combination of treatments. Alongside semaglutide, several other medications may be used to target different symptoms.

Metformin

Metformin is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for PCOS, especially for those with insulin resistance.

It lowers blood sugar levels, improves insulin sensitivity, and may support weight loss.

Studies suggest the combination may offer better results for weight and blood sugar control than either alone.

Birth control pills

Birth control pills are frequently used to manage hormonal imbalances in PCOS. Regulate periods, lower androgen levels, and improve acne and unwanted hair growth.

Combination pills (estrogen + progestin) are most commonly used.

Antiandrogens

These medications help reduce the effects of high androgen levels (like testosterone). Improve symptoms like acne, hair thinning, and unwanted hair growth.

Spironolactone is commonly used, but it must be used with birth control to prevent pregnancy due to potential risks to a developing baby.

Ovulation inducers

These are used when someone with PCOS is trying to get pregnant. Stimulates the ovaries to release eggs (ovulation). These medications can help improve fertility, but should be taken under close medical supervision.

Other weight loss medications

While semaglutide is effective, it can be expensive or hard to access. Other weight loss medications may be more affordable and still helpful for managing PCOS symptoms.

• Phentermine: A common appetite suppressant that may be prescribed short term. It’s generally more affordable and may help with weight loss, but it’s not suitable for everyone and has potential side effects.
• Other options: Some doctors may also consider medications like orlistat or naltrexone/bupropion (Contrave), depending on your health needs.
• Supplements that support insulin sensitivity: Some supplements may help support your PCOS treatment, especially with insulin resistance:
  • Inositol (myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol): Often used to improve insulin sensitivity and support menstrual regularity and fertility.
  • Berberine: A plant compound that may help with blood sugar control and weight management, similar to metformin in some studies.
  • Vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s may also support hormone balance and metabolic health.

Long-term effects and potential for weight regain

While semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss and improved PCOS symptoms, maintaining those results long-term can be challenging, especially after stopping the medication.

Studies have shown that many people regain weight after stopping semaglutide. One study found that participants regained about two-thirds of their lost weight within a year of stopping the drug. Appetite returned, and metabolic benefits like improved insulin sensitivity began to decline over time.

Metformin may help reduce some of the weight regain and preserve insulin sensitivity after semaglutide is stopped. Although it’s not as effective on its own for weight loss, it can still support blood sugar control and help maintain metabolic improvements, especially in people with PCOS and insulin resistance.

Conclusion: Can semaglutide help with PCOS?

Semaglutide shows strong potential as a helpful tool for managing PCOS, especially for improving insulin resistance and supporting weight loss.

While it’s not a cure, it can make a difference in easing symptoms and improving overall health when used as part of a well-rounded treatment plan.

Everyone’s experience with PCOS is different, so it’s important to get medical advice tailored to your needs. A combination of medication, healthy lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring by your healthcare provider works best.

If you’re considering semaglutide for PCOS, talk to your healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you. With the right support, semaglutide could be a promising step toward managing PCOS and feeling better long-term.

Trusted source

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is the national public health agency of the United States

Go to source

Trusted source

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Federal regulatory agency for food and health-related products

Go to source

Trusted source

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Federal regulatory agency for food and health-related products

Go to source

Trusted source

Mayo Clinic

• Nonprofit American academic medical center focused on integrated health care, education, and research

Go to source

Trusted source

Mayo Clinic

• Nonprofit American academic medical center focused on integrated health care, education, and research

Go to source

Trusted source

New England Journal of Medicine

• A prestigious weekly medical journal published by the Massachusetts Medical Society

Go to source

Trusted source

New England Journal of Medicine

• A prestigious weekly medical journal published by the Massachusetts Medical Society

Go to source

Trusted source

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Federal regulatory agency for food and health-related products

Go to source