OBJECTIVES

: PCOS manifests a broad arena of clinical symptomatology extending from menstrual disorders, infertility; hyperandrogenemia to metabolic syndrome. However, given the complex nature of PCOS, tailoring treatment options to the needs of individual patients is quintessential. Hence the current study was conducted to identify the treatment pattern in our tertiary health care setting.

METHODS

: This hospital based observational study included 83 patients with PCOS visiting the endocrinology OPD for a period of 6 months. The details of drug therapy, dose, route, frequency and duration of administration were recorded. Life style modifications suggested including exercise, dietary restrictions were also noted from treatment charts and patient interviews.

RESULTS

: Females in the range of 21-25 years (38.55%) were found to be the most affected age group. Irregular menstrual cycle (77.1%) and hirsutism (48.19%) were the symptoms with highest prevalence. Among the treatment options pharmacological approach (69.88%) was the most preferred therapeutic modality. A total of 156 drugs were prescribed during the study period. Anti-androgens namely Cryproterone acetate, Spirinolactone 31(19.25%), hormonal supplements like Ethinyl Estradiol(5.79%), Biguanides encompassing metformin (18.63)were the most preferred drug therapy. Whilst symptomatic treatment comprised of anti-hypertensives (2.48%), lipid lowering agents (3.1%) and thyroid hormones (19.87%) were also recommended to treat the comorbid conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

: Although treatment pattern showed a rationale therapeutic approach, the patients were only provided symptomatic care. Initial screening of general public and creation of awareness regarding the complications would be the need of the hour to prevent the menace of PCOS.