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Vajna RZ, Géczi AM, Meznerics FA, Ács N, Hegyi P, Feig EZ, Fehérvári P, Kiss-Dala S, Várbíró S, Hetthessy JR, Sára L. Strong Early Impact of Letrozole on Ovulation Induction Outperforms Clomiphene Citrate in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:971. [PMID: 39065819 DOI: 10.3390/ph17070971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder, characterized by hyperandrogenism and/or chronic oligo/anovulation, which leads to infertility. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to explore the efficacy of letrozole compared with clomiphene citrate for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The study protocol has been registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022376611). The literature search included randomized clinical trials. We conducted our systematic literature search across three medical databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), and Embase. The data synthesis employed a random effects model. Out of the 1994 articles screened, 25 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The letrozole group exhibited a significant increase in endometrial thickness (mean difference = 1.70, confidence interval: 0.55-2.86; I2 = 97%, p-value = 0.008). The odds of ovulation (odds ratio = 1.8, confidence interval: 1.21-2.69; I2 = 51%, p-value = 0.010) and pregnancy (odds ratio = 1.96, confidence interval: 1.37-2.81; I2 = 32%, p-value = 0.002) were significantly higher. The resistance index of the subendometrial arteries showed a significant decrease (mean difference = -0.15, confidence interval: -0.27 to -0.04; I2 = 92%, p-value = 0.030). Women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome and treated with letrozole for ovulation induction had increased ovulation and pregnancy rates and increased endometrial thickness. The lower resistance index of subendometrial arteries can enhance intrauterine circulation, creating more favorable conditions for embryo implantation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Zsuzsanna Vajna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Mihály Géczi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fanni Adél Meznerics
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nándor Ács
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Hegyi
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
- Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary
- Institute for Translational Medicine, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Emma Zoé Feig
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Fehérvári
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Biomathematics and Informatics, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1400 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Kiss-Dala
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Várbíró
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Levente Sára
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
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Xu Y, Zhang Z, Wang R, Xue S, Ying Q, Jin L. Roles of estrogen and its receptors in polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1395331. [PMID: 38961865 PMCID: PMC11219844 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1395331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder characterized by abnormal steroid hormone levels in peripheral blood and poor-quality oocytes. In the ovary, androgen is produced by theca cells, and estrogen is produced by granulosa cells. Androgen is converted to estrogen in granulosa cells, with cytochrome P450 aromatase as the limiting enzyme during this process. Estrogen receptors (ER) include ER alpha, ER beta, and membrane receptor GPR30. Studies have demonstrated that the abnormal functions of estrogen and its receptors and estradiol synthesis-related enzymes are closely related to PCOS. In recent years, some estrogen-related drugs have made significant progress in clinical application for subfertility with PCOS, such as letrozole and clomiphene. This article will elaborate on the recent advances in PCOS caused by abnormal expression of estrogen and its receptors and the application of related targeted small molecule drugs in clinical research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziyi Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongxiang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Songguo Xue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Ying
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Jin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Mandelbaum RS, Agarwal R, Melville S, Violette CJ, Winer S, Shoupe D, Matsuo K, Paulson RJ, Quinn MM. A comparison of letrozole regimens for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. F S Rep 2024; 5:170-175. [PMID: 38983726 PMCID: PMC11228783 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the optimal letrozole regimen for ovulation induction (OI) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Single academic fertility clinic from 2015-2022. Patients A total of 189 OI cycles in 52 patients with PCOS. Interventions Patients were prescribed 1 of 4 letrozole regimens (group 1: 2.5 mg for 5 days, group 2: 2.5 mg for 10 days, group 3: 5 mg for 5 days, and group 4: 5 mg for 10 days). Main outcome measures The primary outcome was ovulation, and secondary outcomes included multifollicular development, and clinical pregnancy rate, which were analyzed with binary logistic regression. Kaplan-Meier cumulative response curves and a Cox proportional hazard regression model were used for time-dependent analyses. Results Mean age was 30.9 years (standard deviation [SD], 3.6) and body mass index was 32.1 kg/m2 (SD, 4.0). Group 2 (odds ratio [OR], 9.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.92-43.25), group 3 (OR, 3.40; 95% CI, 1.57-7.37), and group 4 (OR, 5.94; 95% CI, 2.48-14.23) had improved ovulation rates after the starting regimen as compared with group 1. Cumulative ovulation rates exceeded 84% in all groups, yet those who received 5 mg and/or 10 days achieved ovulation significantly sooner. Multifollicular development was not increased in groups 2-4 as compared with group 1. Groups 2-4 also demonstrated improved time to pregnancy. Conclusions Ovulation rates are improved when starting with letrozole at 5 mg and/or a 10-day extended course as compared with the frequently-used 2.5 mg for 5 days. This may shorten time to ovulation and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Mandelbaum
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ravi Agarwal
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Samuel Melville
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Caroline J Violette
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sharon Winer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Donna Shoupe
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Koji Matsuo
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Richard J Paulson
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Molly M Quinn
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
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Podgrajsek R, Ban Frangez H, Stimpfel M. Molecular Mechanism of Resveratrol and Its Therapeutic Potential on Female Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3613. [PMID: 38612425 PMCID: PMC11011890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Resveratrol is a polyphenol present in various plant sources. Studies have reported numerous potential health benefits of resveratrol, exhibiting anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-carcinogenic activity. Due to the reported effects, resveratrol is also being tested in reproductive disorders, including female infertility. Numerous cellular, animal, and even human studies were performed with a focus on the effect of resveratrol on female infertility. In this review, we reviewed some of its molecular mechanisms of action and summarized animal and human studies regarding resveratrol and female infertility, with a focus on age-related infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, and endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeka Podgrajsek
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.P.); (H.B.F.)
| | - Helena Ban Frangez
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.P.); (H.B.F.)
- Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martin Stimpfel
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.P.); (H.B.F.)
- Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Baradwan S, Al-Shalhoub F, Alshahrani MS, Himayda S, AlSghan R, Sabban H, Ahmad IH, Sayed MFME, Mohamad EO, AlAmodi AA, Abdelhakim AM, Shaheen K. Effects of letrozole alone or in combination with gonadotropins on ovulation induction and clinical pregnancy in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Hormones (Athens) 2024:10.1007/s42000-024-00531-4. [PMID: 38280115 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-024-00531-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare letrozole in combination with gonadotropins versus letrozole monotherapy in ovulation induction and clinical pregnancy among infertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). METHODS Several databases were searched for available clinical trials from inception until March 2023. We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared sequential letrozole/gonadotropin versus letrozole alone among infertile women who met the Rotterdam criteria for PCOS. RevMan software was used to perform our meta-analysis. Our primary outcomes were ovulation and clinical pregnancy rates. Our secondary outcomes were endometrial thickness, number of mature follicles (diameter ≥ 18 mm), and incidence of miscarriage and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). RESULTS Six RCTs were retrieved with a total number of 723 patients. The ovulation and clinical pregnancy rates were significantly higher among the letrozole/gonadotropin group versus the letrozole monotherapy group (p < 0.001). In addition, there were significant improvements in endometrial thickness and number of mature follicles in the letrozole/gonadotropin group. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding incidence of miscarriage and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. CONCLUSION Letrozole in combination with gonadotropin is superior to letrozole alone in improving ovulation induction and clinical pregnancy among PCOS patients. More trials are required to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Baradwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Al-Shalhoub
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Saeed Alshahrani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samah Himayda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan AlSghan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity and Children Hospital, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussein Sabban
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Inass Hassan Ahmad
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Entesar Omar Mohamad
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdulhadi A AlAmodi
- College of Health Sciences and Public Health, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Ahmed Mohamed Abdelhakim
- Kasralainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, 395 Portsaid Street, Bab El-Kalq, Cairo, 11638, Egypt.
| | - Kareem Shaheen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
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Bülow NS, Warzecha AK, Nielsen MV, Andersen CY, Holt MD, Petersen MR, Sopa N, Zedeler A, Englund AL, Pinborg A, Grøndahl ML, Skouby SO, Macklon NS. Impact of letrozole co-treatment during ovarian stimulation on oocyte yield, embryo development, and live birth rate in women with normal ovarian reserve: secondary outcomes from the RIOT trial. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2154-2165. [PMID: 37699851 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does letrozole (LZ) co-treatment during ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins for in IVF impact follicle recruitment, oocyte number and quality, embryo quality, or live birth rate (LBR)? SUMMARY ANSWER No impact of LZ was found in follicle recruitment, number of oocytes, quality of embryos, or LBR. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Multi-follicle stimulation for IVF produces supra-physiological oestradiol levels. LZ is an aromatase inhibitor that lowers serum oestradiol thus reducing negative feedback and increasing the endogenous gonadotropins in both the follicular and the luteal phases, effectively normalizing the endocrine milieu during IVF treatment. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Secondary outcomes from a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial (RCT) investigating once-daily 5 mg LZ or placebo during stimulation for IVF with FSH. The RCT was conducted at four fertility clinics at University Hospitals in Denmark from August 2016 to November 2018 and pregnancy outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfers (FET) registered until May 2023. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS One hundred fifty-nine women with expected normal ovarian reserve (anti-Müllerian hormone 8-32 nmol/l) were randomized to either co-treatment with LZ (n = 80) or placebo (n = 79). In total 1268 oocytes were aspirated developing into 386 embryos, and morphology and morphokinetics were assessed. One hundred twenty-nine embryos were transferred in the fresh cycle and 158 embryos in a subsequent FET cycle. The effect of LZ on cumulative clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), LBR, endometrial thickness in the fresh cycle, and total FSH consumption was reported. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The proportion of usable embryos of retrieved oocytes was similar in the LZ group and the placebo group with 0.31 vs 0.36 (mean difference (MD) -0.05, 95% CI (-0.12; 0.03), P = 0.65). The size and number of aspirated follicles at oocyte retrieval were similar with 11.8 vs 10.3 follicles per patient (MD 1.5, 95% CI (-0.5; 3.1), P = 0.50), as well as the number of retrieved oocytes with 8.0 vs 7.9 oocytes (MD 0.1, 95% CI (-1.4; 1.6), P = 0.39) in the LZ and placebo groups, respectively. The chance of retrieving an oocyte from the 13 to 16 mm follicles at trigger day was 66% higher (95% CI (24%; 108%), P = 0.002) in the placebo group than in the LZ group, whilst the chance of retrieving an oocyte from the ≥17 mm follicles at trigger day was 50% higher (95% CI (2%; 98%), P = 0.04) in the LZ group than in the placebo group. The proportion of fertilized oocytes with two-pronuclei per retrieved oocytes or per metaphase II oocytes (MII) (the 2PN rates) were similar regardless of fertilization with IVF or ICSI with 0.48 vs 0.57 (MD -0.09, 95% CI (-0.24; 0.04), P = 0.51), and 0.62 vs 0.64 (MD -0.02, 95% CI (-0.13; 0.07), P = 0.78) in the LZ and placebo groups, respectively. However, the MII rate in the ICSI group was significantly lower with 0.75 vs 0.88 in the LZ vs the placebo group (MD -0.14, 95% CI (-0.22; -0.06), P = 0.03). Blastocysts on Day 5 per patient were similar with 1.5 vs 2.0, P = 0.52, as well as vitrified blastocysts per patient Day 5 with 0.8 vs 1.2 in (MD -0.4, 95% CI (-1.0; 0.2), P = 0.52) and vitrified blastocysts per patient Day 6 with 0.6 vs 0.6 (MD 0, 95% CI (-0.3; 0.3), P = 1.00) in the LZ vs placebo group, respectively. Morphologic evaluation of all usable embryos showed a similar distribution in 'Good', 'Fair', and 'Poor', in the LZ vs placebo group, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.8 95% CI (0.5; 1.3), P = 0.68 of developing a better class embryo. Two hundred and ninety-five of the 386 embryos were cultured in an embryoscope. Morphokinetic annotations showed that the odds of having a high KIDscore™ D3 Day 3 were 1.2 times higher (CI (0.8; 1.9), P = 0.68) in the LZ group vs the placebo group. The CPR per transfer was comparable with 31% vs 39% (risk-difference of 8%, 95% CI (-25%; 11%), P = 0.65) in the LZ and placebo group, respectively, as well as CPR per transfer adjusted for day of transfer, oestradiol and progesterone levels at trigger, progesterone levels mid-luteal, and number of oocytes retrieved (adjusted OR) of 0.8 (95% CI (0.4; 1.6), P = 0.72). Comparable LBR were found per transfer 28% vs 37% (MD -9%, 95% CI (-26%; 9%), P = 0.60) and per randomized women 24% vs 30% (MD of -6%, CI (-22%; 8%), P = 0.60) in the LZ group and placebo group, respectively. Furthermore, 4.8 years since the last oocyte aspiration, a total of 287 of 386 embryos have been transferred in the fresh or a subsequently FET cycle, disclosing the cumulative CPR, which is similar with 38% vs 34% (MD 95% CI (8%; 16%), P = 0.70) in the LZ vs placebo group. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Both cleavage stage and blastocyst transfer and vitrification were permitted in the protocol, making it necessary to categorize their quality and pool the results. The study was powered to detect hormonal variation but not embryo or pregnancy outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The similar utilization rate and quality of the embryos support the use of LZ co-treatment for IVF with specific indication as fertility preservation, patients with previous cancer, or poor responders. The effect of LZ on mature oocytes from different follicle sizes and LBRs should be evaluated in a meta-analysis or a larger RCT. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funding was received from EU Interreg for ReproUnion, Sjaelland University Hospital, Denmark, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and Gedeon Ricther. Roche Diagnostics contributed with assays. A.P. has received grants from Ferring, Merck Serono, and Gedeon Richter, consulting fees from Preglem, Novo Nordisk, Ferring, Gedeon Richter, Cryos, & Merck A/S, speakers fees from Gedeon Richter, Ferring, Merck A/S, Theramex, & Organon, and travel support from Gedeon Richter. The remaining authors declare that they have no competing interests in the research or publication. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS NCT02939898 and NCT02946684.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Søderhamn Bülow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The Fertility Department, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Agnieszka Katarzyna Warzecha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Villads Nielsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marianne Dreyer Holt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Department, Zealand University Hospital Køge, Køge, Denmark
| | - Morten Rønn Petersen
- The Fertility Department, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Negjyp Sopa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anne Zedeler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anne Lis Englund
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Department, Zealand University Hospital Køge, Køge, Denmark
| | - Anja Pinborg
- The Fertility Department, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Marie Louise Grøndahl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sven Olaf Skouby
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicholas Stephen Macklon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Department, Zealand University Hospital Køge, Køge, Denmark
- London Women's Clinic, London, UK
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7
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Bahawi YO, Radwan EM, Khouj MA, Alotaibi RK, Bajuwaiber NA, Baghlaf LF, AlFaraj WF, Oraif AM. Pregnancy Rates in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Using Letrozole Versus Clomiphene Citrate: A Retrospective Record Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e42257. [PMID: 37605693 PMCID: PMC10440068 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prominent cause of anovulation. Thus, this study aimed to compare the pregnancy rates of women with PCOS treated with letrozole (LE) or clomiphene citrate (CC) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Patients and methods A retrospective record review was conducted from April 2021 to August 2022 to review 1370 records of women with PCOS from January 2015 to December 2021. Sixty-one patients were included in this analysis. Chi-square tests and independent sample t-tests were used to analyze various associations. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results Letrozole was associated with a higher pregnancy rate (41.7%) than CC (32.0%). However, this relationship was not statistically significant (P = .619). Furthermore, patients treated with letrozole required fewer cycles to achieve pregnancy (two cycles compared to three cycles). The different age groups and body mass indexes did not affect the pregnancy rate in either group. Conclusion No significant difference was found between CC and LE in ovulation induction and outcome among PCOS patients. Studies with larger sample sizes and multiple centers should be conducted in Saudi Arabia to obtain more conclusive results, which will eventually lead to changes in guidelines for anovulation treatment in women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara O Bahawi
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ebtesam M Radwan
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Maryam A Khouj
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Rahaf K Alotaibi
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Nada A Bajuwaiber
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Lama F Baghlaf
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Wala F AlFaraj
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ayman M Oraif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, SAU
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Altyar AE, Boshra MS, Abou Warda AE, Shawkey SM, Abdallah Mohamed Salem S, Sarhan RM, Sarhan N. Comparative Evaluation of Sildenafil Citrate and Estrogen as an Adjuvant Therapy for Treatment of Unexplained Infertility in Women. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13050842. [PMID: 37241011 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13050842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine blood flow determines endometrial thickness. This study examined how vaginal sildenafil citrate and estradiol valerate altered endometrial thickness, blood flow, and fertility in infertile women. METHODS This study observed 148 infertile women whose infertility was unexplained. Group 1 comprised 48 patients who received oral estradiol valerate (Cyclo-Progynova 2 mg/12 h white tablets) from day 6 till ovulation was initiated with clomiphene citrate. A number of 50 participants in group 2 received oral sildenafil (Respatio 20 mg/12 h film-coated tablets) for 5 days starting the day after their previous menstrual period and finishing on the day they ovulated with clomiphene citrate. Group 3 was the control group, with 50 patients receiving clomiphene citrate (Technovula 50 mg/12 h tablets) ovulation induction from the 2nd to 7th day of cycle. All patients had transvaginal ultrasounds to determine ovulation, follicle count, and fertility. Miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and multiple pregnancies were monitored for three months. RESULTS The three groups' mean ETs differed statistically at p = 0.0004. A statistically significant difference was found between the three groups in terms of the number of follicles, with 69% of patients in group 1 having one and 31% having two or more, 76% of patients in group 2 having one and 24% having two or more, and 90% of patients in the control group having one and 10% having two or more (p = 0.038). The clinical pregnancy rates of the three groups were 58%, 46%, and 27%, respectively (p = 0.005). The distribution of all side effects was not statistically different between the three groups. CONCLUSION It is possible to claim that adding oral estrogen to clomiphene citrate therapy as an adjuvant therapy can improve endometrial thickness and, as a result, increase the pregnancy rates in unexplained infertility compared to sildenafil, especially in cases where the infertility has lasted less than two years. Most people who take sildenafil end up with a mild headache.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed E Altyar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80260, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marian S Boshra
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Essam Abou Warda
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, October 6 University, Giza 12585, Egypt
| | - Sherwet M Shawkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | | | - Rania M Sarhan
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Neven Sarhan
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Misr International University, Cairo 11828, Egypt
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9
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Al-Thuwaynee S, Swadi AAJ. Comparing efficacy and safety of stair step protocols for clomiphene citrate and letrozole in ovulation induction for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a randomized controlled clinical trial. J Med Life 2023; 16:725-730. [PMID: 37520487 PMCID: PMC10375350 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2023-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by menstrual irregularities, high androgen levels, and ovarian cysts. Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) and letrozole have both been investigated as ovulation induction therapies for PCOS. This interventional study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of a stairstep practice of letrozole versus clomiphene citrate in women with PCOS. A total of 100 women diagnosed with PCOS and infertility participated in the study, which took place from March 2021 to July 2022 at the Maternity and Children Teaching Hospital in Adiwaniyah Province, Iraq. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups (each with 50 women): the first group received clomiphene citrate in a stair step pattern (single dose of 50 mg, 100 mg, and 150 mg) for five days, for a maximum of three cycles; the second group received letrozole in a stair step pattern (single dose of 2.5, 5, and 7.5 mg) for five days, for a maximum of three cycles. Follicle size was monitored using ultrasound to achieve a follicle size >18 mm. The ovulation rate was higher in the letrozole group (86.0%) compared to the clomiphene citrate group (72.0%), although the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.086). The pregnancy rate was slightly higher in the letrozole group (22.0% vs 18.0%), but also not statistically significant (p=0.617). However, the mean time from menstruation to ovulation was significantly shorter in the letrozole group (17.20±1.32 days) compared to the clomiphene citrate group (24.08 ± 1.56 days, p<0.001). There were no significant differences in common side effects between the two groups. Overall, letrozole was found to be as safe as clomiphene citrate but demonstrated a shorter time to ovulation. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to validate these findings and determine their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Al-Thuwaynee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
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10
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Babu A, Ramanathan G. Multi-omics insights and therapeutic implications in polycystic ovary syndrome: a review. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:130. [PMID: 37079114 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01053-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common gynecological disease that causes adverse effects in women in their reproductive phase. Nonetheless, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Over the last decade, sequencing and omics approaches have advanced at an increased pace. Omics initiatives have come to the forefront of biomedical research by presenting the significance of biological functions and processes. Thus, multi-omics profiling has yielded important insights into understanding the biology of PCOS by identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Multi-omics platforms provide high-throughput data to leverage the molecular mechanisms and pathways involving genetic alteration, epigenetic regulation, transcriptional regulation, protein interaction, and metabolic alterations in PCOS. The purpose of this review is to outline the prospects of multi-omics technologies in PCOS research by revealing novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Finally, we address the knowledge gaps and emerging treatment strategies for the management of PCOS. Future PCOS research in multi-omics at the single-cell level may enhance diagnostic and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achsha Babu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Gnanasambandan Ramanathan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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11
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Panda SR, Sharmila V, Kalidoss VK, Hota S. A triple-blind, randomized controlled trial, comparing combined letrozole and clomiphene versus only letrozole for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 161:63-70. [PMID: 36149885 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of combination treatment of letrozole and clomiphene citrate (CC) in comparison to that of letrozole alone to induce ovulation in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS The current study was designed as a single-center, double-arm and triple-blind, randomized, controlled trial. The study was prospectively registered with the clinical trials registry in India and was conducted after approval from the institutional ethics committee. Study patients were randomly assigned to treatment with either a combination of 2.5 mg of letrozole and placebo (n = 40) or a combination of 2.5 mg of letrozole and 50 mg of CC (n = 40) starting from cycle days 3 to 7 for a single treatment cycle. RESULTS Ovulation induction with combined letrozole and CC provided a higher ovulation rate, with a 35% absolute difference in its favor. The authors found an ovulation rate of 73% versus 38% (P = 0.003) for treatment with a combination drug and letrozole alone, respectively, while the ovulation rate ratio was 1.93 (95% CI, 1.24-3.01). CONCLUSION Combined treatment of letrozole and clomiphene may be considered as one of the first-line ovulation induction agents for infertile women with PCOS because of its affordability and better safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vijayan Sharmila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AIIMS, Mangalagiri, India
| | | | - Smrutismita Hota
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Nidan Diagnostic and Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, India
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12
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Koohnavard F, Ahmadi K, Eftekhar E, Edalatmanesh MA. Computational screening of FDA-approved drugs to identify potential aromatase receptor inhibitors for polycystic ovary syndrome. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:15507-15519. [PMID: 36940361 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2190411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility without ovulation. Aromatase inhibitors were first proposed as new ovulation-inducing drugs in anovulatory women with an inadequate response to clomiphene. Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor used as an ovulation inducer in infertile women due to PCOS. However, there is no definitive treatment for women with PCOS and the treatments are mostly symptomatic. In this study, we intend to introduce alternative drugs to letrozole using the library of FDA-approved drugs and evaluate the interaction of these drugs with the aromatase receptor. For this aim, molecular docking was performed to identify interactions of FDA-approved drugs with essential residues in the active site of the aromatase receptor. 1614 FDA-approved drugs were docked with aromatase receptor using AutoDock Vina. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study was also performed for 100 ns to verify the stability of the drug-receptor complexes. MMPBSA analysis evaluate the binding energy of selected complexes. Finally, acetaminophen, alendronate, ascorbic acid, aspirin, glutamine, hydralazine, mesalazine and pseudoephedrine drugs showed the best results in interaction with aromatase receptor based on computational studies. These drugs can be introduced as an alternative to letrozole for treating PCOS.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Koohnavard
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Ahmadi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Eftekhar
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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13
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Young SHR, Chang YE, Yang WCV, Lu BJ, Chou SY, Chen CH. Maximize the safety and efficacy of fertility preservation by random start/dual ovarian stimulation for early breast cancer patients. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 62:330-333. [PMID: 36965903 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2022.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE What is the more efficient and safer protocol during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for early-stage breast cancer patients seeking emergency fertility preservation before adjuvant chemo/radiotherapy? MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective, case-series study involved two early-stage (Ia) breast cancer patients that requested for fertility preservation within 3 weeks. Random start/dual stimulation protocols with aromatase inhibitor (AI) were used to maximize oocyte yield and suppress serum estradiol (E2) level. RESULTS E2 levels on trigger day during dual COH were between 112.0 and 407.0 pg/mL. Duration of COH could be shortened to only 17 days, and up to 41 oocytes were successfully retrieved with two retrievals. CONCLUSION This remarkable efficient and safe protocol involves the combination of random start/dual stimulation with step-up AI dosage beforehand which not only maximize oocyte yield within the shortest possible timeframe, but also to maintain the low level of E2 to avoid over-stimulating estrogen-sensitive cancer cells and to decrease the risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hung Richard Young
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hung-Chi Women & Children's Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-En Chang
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chung Vivian Yang
- The PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Buo-Jia Lu
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Yuan Chou
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Huang Chen
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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14
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New EP, Kodama S, Devine K, Jahandideh S, Imudia AN, Plosker SM. Live birth associated with peak serum estradiol levels in letrozole intrauterine insemination cycles. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:785-791. [PMID: 36634734 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify whether the serum estradiol (E2) level on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) trigger or luteinizing hormone (LH) surge (hCG-LH) was associated with the live birth rate (LBR) during ovulation induction (OI) or controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with letrozole followed by intrauterine insemination (IUI). DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Large, multicenter private practice. PATIENT(S) A total of 2,368 OI-IUI cycles in patients treated with letrozole followed by IUI were evaluated from January 1, 2014, to July 31, 2019. INTERVENTION(S) Ovulation induction with letrozole, followed by autologous IUI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcome measure was the LBR as a function of the serum E2 level at the time of hCG administration or LH surge, adjusting for age, body mass index, the largest follicle diameter, and the number of follicles ≥14 mm in diameter. The clinical pregnancy rate as a function of the E2 level, pregnancy rate as a function of the lead follicle diameter, and pregnancy loss rates were the secondary outcome variables. RESULT(S) A total of 2,368 cycles met the inclusion criteria. Outcomes were evaluated at the 25th (E2 level, 110 pg/mL), 50th (157 pg/mL), 75th (225 pg/mL), and 90th (319 pg/mL) percentiles. The LBRs ranged from 9.4% to 11.1% in the lower E2 cohorts and from 12.5% to 13.5% in the higher E2 cohorts. The LBR was significantly greater in the cohort of women with higher E2 levels in all percentile comparisons except for the 90th percentile. The mean periovulatory follicle diameter of ≥20 or <20 mm was not independently associated with the LBR or clinical pregnancy rate, despite a significantly higher mean E2 level in the larger follicle group. CONCLUSION(S) In letrozole OI cycles followed by IUI, lower LBRs and clinical pregnancy rates were found in women with lower E2 levels than in those with higher E2 levels at the 25th, 50th, and 75th percentile E2 level quartiles. Where possible, delaying hCG trigger until the E2 level increases after aromatase inhibition and approaches the physiologic periovulatory level may improve the pregnancy rates with letrozole followed by IUI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika P New
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Samantha Kodama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgetown University-MedStar Washington Hospital Center; Washington, D.C
| | - Kate Devine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgetown University-MedStar Washington Hospital Center; Washington, D.C.; Shady Grove Fertility Reproductive Science Center, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Samad Jahandideh
- Shady Grove Fertility Reproductive Science Center, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Anthony N Imudia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Shady Grove Fertility of Tampa Bay, Tampa, Florida
| | - Shayne M Plosker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Shady Grove Fertility of Tampa Bay, Tampa, Florida.
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15
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Mukherjee AG, Wanjari UR, Nagarajan D, K K V, V A, P JP, T TP, Chakraborty R, Renu K, Dey A, Vellingiri B, Gopalakrishnan AV. Letrozole: Pharmacology, toxicity and potential therapeutic effects. Life Sci 2022; 310:121074. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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16
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Ezoe K, Fukuda J, Takeshima K, Shinohara K, Kato K. Letrozole-induced endometrial preparation improved the pregnancy outcomes after frozen blastocyst transfer compared to the natural cycle: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:824. [PMID: 36344952 PMCID: PMC9639274 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05174-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Letrozole treatment is considered an effective option in endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfers in patients with ovulation disorders or irregular menstruation; however, the effectiveness of letrozole-induced endometrial preparation remains unclear in ovulatory patients. Furthermore, there is no comparative study reporting on pregnancy complications and congenital anomalies after frozen embryo transfers comparing natural and letrozole-assisted cycles. This study examined whether letrozole-induced endometrial preparation affected pregnancy outcomes, perinatal outcomes, and congenital anomalies after single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfers (SVBTs) in ovulatory patients, as compared with the natural cycle. Methods This historic cohort study included only patients with unexplained infertility. Overall, 14,611 patients who underwent SVBTs between July 2015 and June 2020, comprising both natural and letrozole-assisted cycles, were included. Multiple covariates that impact outcomes were used for propensity score matching; 1,911 patients in the letrozole group were matched to 12,700 patients in the natural group, and the clinical records of 1,910 patients in each group were retrospectively analysed. Cycle characteristics, pregnancy outcomes (clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth), and incidence of pregnancy complications and congenital anomalies were statistically compared between the two groups. Results Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that letrozole administration during SVBT cycles significantly improved the live birth rate (P = 0.0355). Gestational age, birth length, birth weight, and infant sex, as well as the incidence of pregnancy complications and birth defects, were statistically comparable between the two groups. Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the perinatal outcomes were not affected by letrozole-induced endometrial preparation. Conclusions Letrozole-induced endometrial preparation improved the live birth rate compared with the natural cycle, without adverse effects on perinatal outcomes and congenital anomalies after SVBTs. Therefore, letrozole-induced endometrial preparation might be a safe and more effective strategy, especially for patients with insufficient luteal function. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-05174-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Ezoe
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
| | - Junichiro Fukuda
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
| | - Kazumi Takeshima
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
| | - Kazunori Shinohara
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
| | - Keiichi Kato
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
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17
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Song H, Guan H, Tang H, Tang L. Effect of ovulation before or after intrauterine insemination on pregnancy outcome in patients with unexplained infertility or polycystic ovarian syndrome. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:960-964. [PMID: 36184827 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2125952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between ovulation and pregnancy outcomes in patients undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI). METHODS The clinical data from 784 patients, diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or unexplained infertility, underwent 1624 IUI cycles were analyzed retrospectively. Ovulation was observed by transvaginal ultrasonography on the day of IUI. The clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), abortion rate (AR), and live birth rate (LBR) were analyzed. RESULTS The study included 1031 pre-ovulation IUI cycles (63.49%) and 593 post-ovulation IUI cycles (36.51%). The CPR was 13.05%, the AR was 15.57%, and the LBR was 11.02%. Ovulation before or after IUI affected the CPR (11.06% VS 16.53%, p = .002) and LBR (9.41% VS 13.83%, p = .006) per cycle, but did not affect the AR (14.91% VS 16.33%, p = .149). The sex ratio of children was not related to ovulation (p = .948). After adjusting for baseline characteristics and logistic regression, the CPR (OR = 1.931, 95% CI 1.062-1.931, p = .019) and LBR (OR = 1.389, 95% CI 1.007-1.916, p = .045) of post-ovulation insemination were higher than those of pre-ovulation insemination significantly. CONCLUSION Pregnancy outcomes were affected by ovulation on the day of IUI in patients with unexplained infertility or PCOS. Post-ovulation insemination may improve the CPR of IUI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Song
- Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangsu, Lianyungang, China
| | - Huijuan Guan
- Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangsu, Lianyungang, China
| | - Huaiyun Tang
- Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangsu, Lianyungang, China
| | - Lisha Tang
- Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangsu, Lianyungang, China
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18
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Franik S, Le QK, Kremer JA, Kiesel L, Farquhar C. Aromatase inhibitors (letrozole) for ovulation induction in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 9:CD010287. [PMID: 36165742 PMCID: PMC9514207 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010287.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infrequent periods (oligomenorrhoea) and absence of periods (amenorrhoea). It affects about 5% to 20% of women worldwide and often leads to anovulatory infertility. Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are a class of drugs that were introduced for ovulation induction in 2001. Since about 2001 clinical trials have reached differing conclusions as to whether the AI, letrozole, is at least as effective as the first-line treatment clomiphene citrate (CC), a selective oestrogen receptor modulator (SERM). OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of AIs (letrozole) (with or without adjuncts) compared to SERMs (with or without adjuncts) for infertile women with anovulatory PCOS for ovulation induction followed by timed intercourse or intrauterine insemination. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following sources, from their inception to 4 November 2021, to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs): the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO. We also checked reference lists of relevant trials, searched the trial registers and contacted experts in the field for any additional trials. We did not restrict the searches by language or publication status. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all RCTs of AIs used alone or with other medical therapies for ovulation induction in women of reproductive age with anovulatory PCOS. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected trials, extracted the data and assessed risks of bias using RoB 1. We pooled trials where appropriate using a fixed-effect model to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for most outcomes, and risk differences (RDs) for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). The primary outcomes were live birth rate and OHSS rate. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, miscarriage and multiple pregnancy rates. We assessed the certainty of the evidence for each comparison using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS This is a substantive update of a previous review; of six previously included trials, we excluded four from this update and moved two to 'awaiting classification' due to concerns about validity of trial data. We included five additional trials for this update that now includes a total of 41 RCTs (6522 women). The AI, letrozole, was used in all trials. Letrozole compared to SERMs with or without adjuncts followed by timed intercourse Live birth rates were higher with letrozole (with or without adjuncts) compared to SERMs followed by timed intercourse (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.40 to 2.11; I2 = 0%; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) = 10; 11 trials, 2060 participants; high-certainty evidence). This suggests that in women with a 20% chance of live birth using SERMs, the live birth rate in women using letrozole with or without adjuncts would be 27% to 35%. There is high-certainty evidence that OHSS rates are similar with letrozole or SERMs (0.5% in both arms: risk difference (RD) -0.00, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.01; I2 = 0%; 10 trials, 1848 participants; high-certainty evidence). There is evidence for a higher pregnancy rate in favour of letrozole (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.45 to 1.98; I2 = 0%; NNTB = 10; 23 trials, 3321 participants; high-certainty evidence). This suggests that in women with a 24% chance of clinical pregnancy using SERMs, the clinical pregnancy rate in women using letrozole with or without adjuncts would be 32% to 39%. There is little or no difference between treatment groups in the rate of miscarriage per pregnancy (25% with SERMs versus 24% with letrozole: OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.32; I2 = 0%; 15 trials, 736 participants; high-certainty evidence) and multiple pregnancy rate (2.2% with SERMs versus 1.6% with letrozole: OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.32; I2 = 0%; 14 trials, 2247 participants; high-certainty evidence). However, a funnel plot showed mild asymmetry, indicating that some trials in favour of SERMs might be missing. Letrozole compared to laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) One trial reported very low-certainty evidence that live birth rates may be higher with letrozole compared to LOD (OR 2.07, 95% CI 0.99 to 4.32; 1 trial, 141 participants; very low-certainty evidence). This suggests that in women with a 22% chance of live birth using LOD with or without adjuncts, the live birth rate in women using letrozole with or without adjuncts would be 24% to 47%. No trial reported OHSS rates. Due to the low-certainty evidence we are uncertain if letrozole improves pregnancy rates compared to LOD (OR 1.47, 95% CI 0.95 to 2.28; I² = 0%; 3 trials, 367 participants; low-certainty evidence). This suggests that in women with a 29% chance of clinical pregnancy using LOD with or without adjuncts, the clinical pregnancy rate in women using letrozole with or without adjuncts would be 28% to 45%. There seems to be no evidence of a difference in miscarriage rates per pregnancy comparing letrozole to LOD (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.22 to 1.92; I² = 0%; 3 trials, 122 participants; low-certainty evidence). This also applies to multiple pregnancies (OR 3.00, 95% CI 0.12 to 74.90; 1 trial, 141 participants; very low-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Letrozole appears to improve live birth rates and pregnancy rates in infertile women with anovulatory PCOS, compared to SERMs, when used for ovulation induction, followed by intercourse. There is high-certainty evidence that OHSS rates are similar with letrozole or SERMs. There was high-certainty evidence of no difference in miscarriage rate and multiple pregnancy rate. We are uncertain if letrozole increases live birth rates compared to LOD. In this update, we added good quality trials and removed trials with concerns over data validity, thereby upgrading the certainty of the evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Franik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Quang-Khoi Le
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jan Am Kremer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Cindy Farquhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Vyrides AA, El Mahdi E, Giannakou K. Ovulation induction techniques in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:982230. [PMID: 36035398 PMCID: PMC9411864 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.982230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anovulation is very common and has several different clinical manifestations, including amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding. Various mechanisms can cause anovulation. The clinical consequences and commonest chronic anovulatory disorder, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), has a prevalence that ranges between 6 to 10% of the global population. While multiple causes can eventually result in PCOS, various methods have been described in the literature for its management, often without ascertaining the underlying cause. Ovulation Induction (OI) is a group of techniques that is used in women with PCOS who are looking to conceive and are unbale to do so with natural means. This narrative review presents a summary of the current evidence and available techniques for OI in women with PCOS, highlighting their performance and applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas A. Vyrides
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Essam El Mahdi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Newham University Hospital NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Konstantinos Giannakou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- *Correspondence: Konstantinos Giannakou
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Poulsen LC, Warzecha AK, Bülow NS, Bungum L, Macklon NS, Yding Andersen C, Skouby SO. Effects of letrozole cotreatment on endocrinology and follicle development in women undergoing ovarian stimulation in an antagonist protocol. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1557-1571. [PMID: 35652260 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the downstream endocrine and paracrine consequences of letrozole (LZ) cotreatment during ovarian stimulation and is follicle growth and recruitment affected? SUMMARY ANSWER Letrozole cotreatment induces marked changes in both the follicular and luteal phase endocrinology causing potentiation of follicle diameter and an improved corpus luteum function without affecting the secondarily recruited follicle cohort. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Letrozole is a third-generation aromatase inhibitor that is well-established as an effective ovulatory agent, while its possible benefits in standard in vitro fertilization protocols are less thoroughly investigated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study included a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized study with LZ or placebo intervention during ovarian stimulation for IVF treatment, an observational preceding baseline natural cycle and a succeeding follow-up visit. Participants were enrolled between August 2016 and November 2018. Data from the randomized, stimulated cycle were part of a larger RCT, which was previously published. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study was conducted at a public fertility clinic at Herlev Hospital, Denmark, including 31 healthy, normo-responding women eligible for IVF treatment. They underwent a natural baseline cycle and were subsequently randomized to receive either LZ 5 mg (n = 16) or placebo (n = 15) daily during ovarian stimulation from cycle day (CD) 2-3 until induction of ovulation. Throughout both cycles, monitoring was performed every third day with transvaginal ultrasound for assessment of follicle count and diameter, and blood analyses for the determination of twelve endocrine and paracrine parameters. A follow-up assessment was performed at CD2-3 in the succeeding cycle. In the randomized part of the study, we determined differences in blood parameters, follicle recruitment, and follicle diameter. In the observational part of the study, we assessed follicle recruitment in between cycles and its correlation to endocrine parameters. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Letrozole cotreatment significantly suppressed oestradiol (E2) concentrations in the follicular phase (area under the curve (AUC) -58% (95% CI [-70%; -43%], P < 0.001)) and luteal phase (AUC -39% [-63%; -1%], P = 0.046). This had a marked effect on the endocrine and paracrine output with increased follicular phase luteinizing hormone (AUC +37% [3%; 82%], P = 0.033), androstenedione (AUC +36% [6%; 74%], P = 0.016), testosterone (AUC +37% [7%; 73%], P = 0.013) and 17-OH-progesterone (AUC +114% [10%; 318%], P = 0.027). Furthermore, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was increased at stimulation day 5 in the LZ group (P < 0.05). In the luteal phase, increased corpus luteum output was reflected by elevated progesterone (AUC +44% [1%; 104%], P = 0.043), inhibin A (AUC +52% [11%; 108%], P = 0.011), androstenedione (AUC +31% [9%; 58%], P = 0.006) and testosterone (AUC +29% [6%; 57%], P = 0.012) in the LZ group. The altered balance between oestrogens and androgens was reflected in a markedly reduced SHBG concentration in the LZ group throughout the luteal phase (AUC -35% [-52%; -11%], P = 0.009). Endocrine and paracrine parameters were similar between groups at the follow-up visit. Letrozole cotreatment significantly increased the mean number of follicles >16 mm at oocyte retrieval (7.2 vs 5.2, difference: 2.0, 95% CI [0.1; 3.8], P = 0.036), while the mean total number of follicles at oocyte retrieval was the same (23.7 vs 23.5, difference: 0.2 [-5.8; 6.1], P = 0.958), and the mean FSH consumption during the stimulated cycle was similar (1500 vs 1520 IU, difference -20 IU [-175; 136], P = 0.794). Between cycles, the mean antral follicle count at CD2-3 was unchanged (natural cycle 19.0, stimulated cycle 20.9, follow-up cycle 19.7, P = 0.692) and there was no effect of LZ cotreatment on the recruitment of the next follicle cohort (test for interaction, P = 0.821). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study included a relatively small, selected group of healthy women with an expected normal ovarian function and reserve, and the effects of LZ may therefore be different in other patient groups. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We confirm some previous findings concerning increased follicle growth and increased endogenous FSH and androgen production, which support the rationale for further studies on the use of LZ cotreatment, for example, as a form of endogenous androgen priming sensitizing the follicle to FSH. Letrozole appears to improve the luteal phase with better stimulation of corpus luteum and progesterone secretion. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The authors declare no conflicts of interest relating to the present work. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02939898.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liv C Poulsen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Agnieszka K Warzecha
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Nathalie S Bülow
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark.,The Fertility Department, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leif Bungum
- Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Nicholas S Macklon
- Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark.,London Women's Clinic, London, UK
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sven O Skouby
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Endocrinological and Reproductive Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
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Takeshima K, Ezoe K, Kawasaki N, Hayashi H, Kuroda T, Kato K. Perinatal outcomes and congenital anomalies associated with letrozole and natural cycles in single fresh cleaved embryo transfers: A single-center, 10-year cohort study. F S Rep 2022; 3:138-144. [PMID: 35789728 PMCID: PMC9250119 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate and compare the safety of letrozole and natural cycles in fresh early embryo transfers. Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting A large fertility treatment center. Patient(s) Women who underwent natural and letrozole cycles during fresh early embryo transfer at Kato Ladies Clinic between January 2008 and December 2017. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome measure(s) Perinatal complications and congenital anomalies. Result(s) No significant differences were observed in pregnancy complications, gestational age, birth weight, small for gestational age, large for gestational age, and congenital anomalies between the the women who underwent natural and letrozole cycles. Conclusion(s) The perinatal outcomes and congenital anomaly rates associated with letrozole and natural cycles in fresh early embryo transfers were comparable. Therefore, our data support the safe use of letrozole in fresh early embryo transfers in assisted reproductive technology.
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22
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The Effect of Clomiphene Citrate and Letrozole in Apoptotic Pathways and Cell Cycle in Human Primary Cumulus Cells and the Protective Effect of Estradiol. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2272-2281. [PMID: 35513593 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00961-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole are ovulatory stimulants that, despite high ovulation rates, achieve low pregnancy rates. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro effects of CC and letrozole, alone or in combination with estradiol, on apoptosis in human cumulus cells. We performed a controlled prospective study using primary cumulus cell cultures from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (n=22). Alpha-inhibin immunocytochemistry was used to assess cell culture purity and morphology. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay, cell cycle status by flow cytometry, and Caspase-3, Bax and SOD-2, and S26 gene expression by qPCR. Cells were treated for 24 hours in 5 conditioned media: CC, CC + estradiol, letrozole, letrozole + estradiol and control. None of the treatments affected cell viability, but letrozole reduced the mean percentage of cells in the S phase compared to control (24.79 versus 21.70, p=0.0014). Clomiphene treatment increased mRNA expression of Bax (4 fold) and SOD-2 (2 fold), which was reversed by co-treatment with estradiol. SOD-2 expression increased in cells treated with letrozole compared to control (4 fold), which was also reversed by estradiol. These findings suggest that clomiphene citrate and letrozole do not significantly affect the viability of human cumulus cells. Still, the expression of genes involved in apoptosis was modulated by these drugs alone and in association with estradiol, suggesting that CC and letrozole may have direct effects on cumulus cells beyond their known mechanisms of action.
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23
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Zwiefelhofer EM, Lillico W, Adams GP. Development of a letrozole-based synchronization protocol for fixed-time artificial insemination in beef cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 240:106975. [PMID: 35483319 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.106975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Experiments were done to determine ovulation synchrony following a 4-day letrozole treatment (Exp 1), compare the efficacy of a letrozole-based protocol with other commonly used synchronization protocols for FTAI (Exp 2), and test a new intravaginal letrozole-releasing device (LRD) with and without pre-synchronization (Exp 3). In Exp 1, heifers and lactating cows at random stages of the estrous cycle were given an LRD for 4 days, PGF at LRD removal, and GnRH at 48 or 60 h after PGF, or no GnRH. In Exp 2, heifers and lactating cows were assigned to three FTAI groups: i) LRD, ii) estradiol+progesterone, iii) 5-d Co-synch+PRID. In Exp 3, heifers were pre-synchronized with PGF or not (control) 8 days before insertion of either an X-LRD or T-LRD for 3 days; FTAI was done 48 h after device removal. In Exp 1, the variation in interval to ovulation in cows, but not heifers, in the GnRH 48-h group was less than half that in other groups (P < 0.05). In Exp 2, the P/AI was lower (P < 0.001) in the LRD group compared to the other groups. In Experiment 3, the X-LRD increased (P < 0.0001) plasma letrozole concentrations compared to the T-LRD; the pregnancy rate was not affected by pre-synchronization or the type of LRD. Although ovulation synchrony was achieved following LRD treatment, the LRD group had the lowest P/AI compared to other protocols, perhaps because of too short an interval between LRD removal and GnRH/FTAI. Drug delivery was enhanced with the new X-LRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Zwiefelhofer
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Will Lillico
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Gregg P Adams
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Triazoles Synthesis & Applications as Nonsteroidal Aromatase Inhibitors for Hormone-Dependent Breast Cancer Treatment. HETEROATOM CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/5349279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors (AIs) have been emerged as promising agents for treating hormone-dependent breast cancer in postmenopausal women because of their inhibitory effect on estrogen synthesis. Indeed, these compounds can block the activity of aromatase, the enzyme that intervenes in the last steps of estrogen production pathway. Triazoles are the core structures of nonsteroidal AIs. The nitrogen atom of the triazole moiety plays a fundamental role in the aromatase functionality by interacting with the iron ions of the heme group. In general, AIs possess numerous advantages as they quench the last step of estrogen synthesis without any inhibitory effects on the production of other steroids produced via the same pathway. Some AIs as anastrozole, letrozole, and vorozole have already been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the treatment of breast cancer. The previously mentioned compounds present severe and adverse effects as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), resistance onset on long-term treatments, and a higher risk of bone fractures. This review focuses intensively on the role of AIs in the treatment of hormone-sensitive types of cancers, especially the role of triazoles as nonsteroidal AIs. Also, the review provides an overview about the chemistry of triazoles along with the different methods by which the
-triazoles and s-triazoles are synthesized.
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Xu XL, Huang ZY, Yu K, Li J, Fu XW, Deng SL. Estrogen Biosynthesis and Signal Transduction in Ovarian Disease. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:827032. [PMID: 35299973 PMCID: PMC8921451 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.827032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen mainly binds to estrogen receptors (ERs) to regulate menstrual cycles and reproduction. The expression of ERalpha (ERα), ERbeta (ERβ), and G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) mRNA could be detected in ovary, suggesting that they play an important role in estrogen signal transduction in ovary. And many studies have revealed that abnormal expression of estrogen and its receptors is closely related to ovarian disease or malignant tumors. With the continuous development and research of animal models, tissue-specific roles of both ERα and ERβ have been demonstrated in animals, which enable people to have a deeper understanding of the potential role of ER in regulating female reproductive diseases. Nevertheless, our current understanding of ERs expression and function in ovarian disease is, however, incomplete. To elucidate the biological mechanism behind ERs in the ovary, this review will focus on the role of ERα and ERβ in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian cancer and premature ovarian failure (POF) and discuss the major challenges of existing therapies to provide a reference for the treatment of estrogen target tissue ovarian diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Ling Xu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng-Yuan Huang
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kun Yu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang-Wei Fu, ; Shou-Long Deng, ; Jun Li,
| | - Xiang-Wei Fu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang-Wei Fu, ; Shou-Long Deng, ; Jun Li,
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang-Wei Fu, ; Shou-Long Deng, ; Jun Li,
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Wessel JA, Danhof NA, van Eekelen R, Diamond MP, Legro RS, Peeraer K, D’Hooghe TM, Erdem M, Dankert T, Cohlen BJ, Thyagaraju C, Mol BWJ, Showell M, van Wely M, Mochtar MH, Wang R. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:733-746. [PMID: 35587030 PMCID: PMC9434229 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine insemination with ovarian stimulation (IUI-OS) is a first-line treatment for unexplained infertility. Gonadotrophins, letrozole and clomiphene citrate (CC) are commonly used agents during IUI-OS and have been compared in multiple aggregate data meta-analyses, with substantial heterogeneity and no analysis on time-to-event outcomes. Individual participant data meta-analysis (IPD-MA) is considered the gold standard for evidence synthesis as it can offset inadequate reporting of individual studies by obtaining the IPD, and allows analyses on treatment–covariate interactions to identify couples who benefit most from a particular treatment. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We performed this IPD-MA to compare the effectiveness and safety of ovarian stimulation with gonadotrophins, letrozole and CC and to explore treatment–covariate interactions for important baseline characteristics in couples undergoing IUI. SEARCH METHODS We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and PsycINFO from their inception to 28 June 2021. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IUI-OS with gonadotrophins, letrozole and CC among couples with unexplained infertility. We contacted the authors of eligible RCTs to share the IPD and established the IUI IPD-MA Collaboration. The primary effectiveness outcome was live birth and the primary safety outcome was multiple pregnancy. Secondary outcomes were other reproductive outcomes, including time to conception leading to live birth. We performed a one-stage random effects IPD-MA. OUTCOMES Seven of 22 (31.8%) eligible RCTs provided IPD of 2495 couples (62.4% of the 3997 couples participating in 22 RCTs), of which 2411 had unexplained infertility and were included in this IPD-MA. Six RCTs (n = 1511) compared gonadotrophins with CC, and one (n = 900) compared gonadotrophins, letrozole and CC. Moderate-certainty evidence showed that gonadotrophins increased the live birth rate compared to CC (6 RCTs, 2058 women, RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.12–1.51, I2 = 26%). Low-certainty evidence showed that gonadotrophins may also increase the multiple pregnancy rate compared to CC (6 RCTs, 2058 women, RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.33–3.54, I2 = 69%). Heterogeneity on multiple pregnancy could be explained by differences in gonadotrophin starting dose and choice of cancellation criteria. Post-hoc sensitivity analysis on RCTs with a low starting dose of gonadotrophins (≤75 IU) confirmed increased live birth rates compared to CC (5 RCTs, 1457 women, RR 1.26, 95% CI 1.05–1.51), but analysis on only RCTs with stricter cancellation criteria showed inconclusive evidence on live birth (4 RCTs, 1238 women, RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.94–1.41). For multiple pregnancy, both sensitivity analyses showed inconclusive findings between gonadotrophins and CC (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.45–1.96; RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.32–2.03, respectively). Moderate certainty evidence showed that gonadotrophins reduced the time to conception leading to a live birth when compared to CC (6 RCTs, 2058 women, HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.15–1.63, I2 = 22%). No strong evidence on the treatment–covariate (female age, BMI or primary versus secondary infertility) interactions was found. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In couples with unexplained infertility undergoing IUI-OS, gonadotrophins increased the chance of a live birth and reduced the time to conception compared to CC, at the cost of a higher multiple pregnancy rate, when not differentiating strategies on cancellation criteria or the starting dose. The treatment effects did not seem to differ in women of different age, BMI or primary versus secondary infertility. In a modern practice where a lower starting dose and stricter cancellation criteria are in place, effectiveness and safety of different agents seem both acceptable, and therefore intervention availability, cost and patients’ preferences should factor in the clinical decision-making. As the evidence for comparisons to letrozole is based on one RCT providing IPD, further RCTs comparing letrozole and other interventions for unexplained infertility are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Wessel
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - N A Danhof
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R van Eekelen
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - R S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - K Peeraer
- UZ Leuven, Leuven University Fertility Center, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - T M D’Hooghe
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt 64293, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven/University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - M Erdem
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Gazi University, Ankara 06560, Turkey
| | - T Dankert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rijnstate Hospital Arnhem, 06560 Ankara, The Netherlands
| | - B J Cohlen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Isala Fertility Center, 8025 AB Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - C Thyagaraju
- Department of OBG, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry 605006, India
| | - B W J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Aberdeen Centre for Women’s Health Research, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - M Showell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - M van Wely
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M H Mochtar
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Wang
- Correspondence address. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Level 5, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia. E-mail:
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Zhang W, Liu Z, Zhang J, Ren B, Liu M, Li J, Zhang W, Guan Y. Comparison of Perinatal Outcomes of Letrozole-Induced Ovulation and Hormone Replacement Therapy Protocols in Patients With Abnormal Ovulation Undergoing Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:837731. [PMID: 35370976 PMCID: PMC8966491 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.837731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increasing use of frozen embryo transfer (FET), the best endometrial preparation protocol is continuously being discussed. The hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycle and letrozole-induced ovulation (L-OI) cycle are available protocols for patients with abnormal ovulation. Previous comparisons of the two protocols have focused on pregnancy outcomes, with less attention to perinatal outcomes, and population heterogeneity was large; thus, convincing conclusions about which protocol is more appropriate could not be drawn. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study using propensity score matching (PSM) analysis for a population of patients undergoing FET cycles in the reproductive center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2016 to September 2020. The main outcome measures were clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, very preterm delivery (VPTD), preterm delivery (PTD), low birth weight (LBW), macrosomia, small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), premature rupture of membranes (PROM), placenta previa, and congenital abnormality. RESULTS A total of 8010 women were enrolled. Due to the large heterogeneity among the patients, we conducted 1:1 PSM, and 1461 women matched in each group. Compared with the HRT group, the L-OI group had a smaller proportion of thin endometrium (27.38% vs. 41.07%) and thicker endometrium on the day of embryo transfer (9.63 ± 1.82 vs. 8.91 ± 1.38). There were no significant differences in clinical pregnancy rate, early abortion rate or live birth rate between the groups. There was no significant difference in perinatal outcomes of singleton live birth, including VPTD, PTD, postterm delivery, LBW, macrosomia, SGA, LGA, GDM, HDP, placenta previa, and congenital malformation. CONCLUSION For women with abnormal ovulation, the pregnancy and perinatal outcomes of HRT and L-OI protocols are reassuring. It seems that both protocols are safe and effective for endometrial preparation in frozen-thawed embryo transfer in the clinic.
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Bezerra Espinola MS, Laganà AS, Bilotta G, Gullo G, Aragona C, Unfer V. D-chiro-inositol Induces Ovulation in Non-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Non-Insulin-Resistant Young Women, Likely by Modulating Aromatase Expression: A Report of 2 Cases. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2021; 22:e932722. [PMID: 34615846 PMCID: PMC8503791 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.932722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Case series
Patients: Female, 19-year-old • Female, 23-year-old
Final Diagnosis: Anovulation
Symptoms: Oligomenorrhea
Medication: —
Clinical Procedure: —
Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Salomé Bezerra Espinola
- System Biology Group, Rome, Italy.,Alma Res Assisted Fertility Center, Rome, Italy.,The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), Rome, Italy.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Gullo
- IVF Unit, AOOR Villa Sofia Cervello, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Cesare Aragona
- System Biology Group, Rome, Italy.,The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Unfer
- System Biology Group, Rome, Italy.,The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), Rome, Italy
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Zhang WY, Gardner RM, Kapphahn KI, Ramachandran MK, Murugappan G, Aghajanova L, Lathi RB. The impact of estradiol on pregnancy outcomes in letrozole-stimulated frozen embryo transfer cycles. F S Rep 2021; 2:320-326. [PMID: 34553158 PMCID: PMC8441577 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the impact of low estradiol (E2) levels in letrozole-stimulated frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Design Retrospective cohort. Setting University-affiliated fertility center. Patients All patients who underwent letrozole-stimulated FET cycles from January 2017 to April 2020 (n = 217). The "Low E2" group was defined as those with E2 serum levels on the day of trigger <10th percentile level (E2 <91.16 pg/mL, n = 22) and the "Normal E2" group was defined as those with E2 serum levels ≥10th percentile level (E2 ≥91.16 pg/mL, n = 195). Interventions None. Main Outcome Measures Pregnancy outcomes including rates of clinical pregnancy, clinical miscarriage, and live birth. Neonatal outcomes including gestational age at delivery, birth weight, and Apgar score. Results The mean ± SD estradiol level was 66.8 ± 14.8 pg/mL for the "Low E2" group compared with 366.3 ± 322.1 pg/mL for the "Normal E2" group. There were otherwise no substantial differences in cycle characteristics such as endometrial thickness on the day of ovulation trigger and progesterone levels in early pregnancy. The "Low E2" group had a significantly higher clinical miscarriage rate (36.4% vs. 8.8%, adjusted odds ratio 8.06) and lower live birth rate (31.8% vs. 57.9%, adjusted odds ratio 0.28). Neonatal outcomes such as gestational age at delivery, mean birth weight, Apgar scores, and incidence of newborn complications were not clinically different between the groups. Conclusion Low E2 levels were associated with a significantly higher miscarriage rate and lower live birth rate, suggesting that E2 levels in the follicular phase may have an effect on cycle outcomes. Given the rise in use of FET, further studies are needed to confirm our findings and understand the mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Y Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Rebecca M Gardner
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Kristopher I Kapphahn
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Maya K Ramachandran
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Gayathree Murugappan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Lusine Aghajanova
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Ruth B Lathi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Tsiami AP, Goulis DG, Sotiriadis AI, Kolibianakis EM. Higher ovulation rate with letrozole as compared with clomiphene citrate in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hormones (Athens) 2021; 20:449-461. [PMID: 34033068 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-021-00289-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of anovulatory infertility. According to the latest guidelines, letrozole should be considered as the first-line pharmacological treatment for women with WHO Group II anovulation or PCOS. However, the use of letrozole as an ovulation induction agent is not FDA or EMA approved, and its use is "off-label." The main concern with respect to letrozole regards its potential teratogenic effect on the fetus. PURPOSE To determine whether the probability of ovulation is higher with letrozole as compared to clomiphene citrate (CC) in anovulatory women with PCOS. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing letrozole versus CC used for ovulation induction in infertile women with PCOS followed by timed intercourse (TI) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) were included in this meta-analysis. Primary outcome was ovulation. Secondary outcomes were live birth, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, multiple pregnancy, and congenital anomalies. Subgroup analysis included patients who received letrozole or CC as first-line treatment, and patients with PCOS diagnosed according to the Rotterdam criteria. RESULTS Twenty-six RCTs published between 2006 and 2019, involving 4168 patients who underwent 8310 cycles of ovulation induction, were included. The probability of ovulation was significantly higher in letrozole as compared to CC cycles (RR: 1.148, 95% CI: 1.077 to 1.223, 3017 women, 19 trials, I2: 47.7%, low-quality evidence). CONCLUSION A higher probability of ovulation is expected in infertile patients with PCOS treated with letrozole as compared to CC. The higher ovulation rate might have contributed to the higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rate. This finding is also true for patients who were administered letrozole as first-line treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION CRD42019125166.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra P Tsiami
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Irakleitou 1, 50132, Kozani, Greece.
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54629, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros I Sotiriadis
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efstratios M Kolibianakis
- Unit of Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Papageorgiou General Hospital, 54629, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Sharon-Weiner M, Farladansky-Gershnabel S, Schreiber H, Shavit T, Levitas E, Berkovitz A. Clinical pregnancy rates among anovulatory and oligoovulatory women after letrozole versus hormone replacement therapy in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles. HUM FERTIL 2021:1-8. [PMID: 34369243 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.1961313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This cohort study investigated whether letrozole versus hormone replacement therapy (HRT) results in higher live birth rate among anovulatory and oligoovulatory women in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. It was conducted from 1st February 2018 to 31st January 2019 and included 261 anovulatory and oligoovulatory women. Since letrozole has become an effective alternative to HRT cycles, 121 patients received letrozole in 121 cycles from 1st February 2018 to 31st January 2019 and were compared to 140 HRT FET cycles among 140 women from 1st February 2017 to 31st January 2018. The primary outcome was live birth rate. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy and miscarriage rates. Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates of transferred cleavage embryos were higher in the letrozole compared to the HRT group (36/65 (55.3%) vs. 20/110 (18.1%), p < 0.001) and (25/65 (38.4%) vs. 17/110 (15.4%), p < 0.001) respectively, whilst these rates were similar for transferred blastocyst embryos. Miscarriage and multiple pregnancy rates were similar between groups. The letrozole group was older than the HRT group (31.8 ± 5.1 vs. 29.9 ± 5.1 years, p = 0.002) and more smoked cigarettes (p = 0.035). Groups were similar regarding BMI, male versus non-male indication for fertility treatment, peak oestradiol levels, and numbers of oocytes retrieved, blastocysts, frozen and transferred embryos. Letrozole compared to HRT might improve live birth and clinical pregnancy rates among anovulatory and oligoovulatory women undergoing FET cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Sharon-Weiner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sivan Farladansky-Gershnabel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hanoch Schreiber
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tal Shavit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Arie Berkovitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Assuta Medical Center, Rishon Lezion, Israel
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32
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Zehravi M, Maqbool M, Ara I. Polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility: an update. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2021; 34:1-9. [PMID: 34293835 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2021-0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is the most well-known endocrine condition among women of this generation (PCOS). Symptoms of hyperandrogenism, irregular menstrual periods, and insulin resistance are all traits associated with PCOS. In women with PCOS, the chance of having problems including infertility, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes increases. The PCOS board hopes to reduce body weight and insulin levels, restore fertility, control excessive hair growth on the body or scalp, re-establish the regular feminine cycle, and avoid misunderstandings. Insulin sensitizers have been one of the most common metabolic modulators, but their effectiveness has been sporadic. Insulin resistance, followed by thiazolidinediones, is central to the pathophysiology of PCOS, with metformin having nearly similar efficacy. In the management of PCOS, statins and incretins are newer therapies with obvious metabolic targets. Vitamin D, acarbose, and myoinositol are just a few of the reciprocal and optional clinical treatments that have been proved to be useful in the treatment of PCOS. The number of viable methods for dealing with PCOS-related infertility has increased as well. Despite the fact that clomiphene citrate (CC) has long been the gold standard for ovulation induction in the event of ovulatory infertility, aromatase inhibitors can induce ovulation with results that are nearly identical to or better than those reported with CC, aromatase inhibitors can cause ovulation with results that are nearly identical to or better than those reported with CC. Ovarian incitement conventions that intelligently utilize gonadotropins, gonadotropin-delivering hormone rivals, the approach of ovarian boring, and assisted conceptive advancements with in vitro oocyte development indicate an expanding level of therapeutic progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrukh Zehravi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Girls Section, Prince Sattam Bin Abdul Aziz University Alkharj, Saudia Arabia
| | - Mudasir Maqbool
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Irfat Ara
- Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE In the US, approximately 12.7% of reproductive age women seek treatment for infertility each year. This review summarizes current evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment of infertility. OBSERVATIONS Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Approximately 85% of infertile couples have an identifiable cause. The most common causes of infertility are ovulatory dysfunction, male factor infertility, and tubal disease. The remaining 15% of infertile couples have "unexplained infertility." Lifestyle and environmental factors, such as smoking and obesity, can adversely affect fertility. Ovulatory disorders account for approximately 25% of infertility diagnoses; 70% of women with anovulation have polycystic ovary syndrome. Infertility can also be a marker of an underlying chronic disease associated with infertility. Clomiphene citrate, aromatase inhibitors such as letrozole, and gonadotropins are used to induce ovulation or for ovarian stimulation during in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Adverse effects of gonadotropins include multiple pregnancy (up to 36% of cycles, depending on specific therapy) and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (1%-5% of cycles), consisting of ascites, electrolyte imbalance, and hypercoagulability. For individuals presenting with anovulation, ovulation induction with timed intercourse is often the appropriate initial treatment choice. For couples with unexplained infertility, endometriosis, or mild male factor infertility, an initial 3 to 4 cycles of ovarian stimulation may be pursued; IVF should be considered if these approaches do not result in pregnancy. Because female fecundity declines with age, this factor should guide decision-making. Immediate IVF may be considered as a first-line treatment strategy in women older than 38 to 40 years. IVF is also indicated in cases of severe male factor infertility or untreated bilateral tubal factor. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Approximately 1 in 8 women aged 15 to 49 years receive infertility services. Although success rates vary by age and diagnosis, accurate diagnosis and effective therapy along with shared decision-making can facilitate achievement of fertility goals in many couples treated for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Ann Carson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Amanda N Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Rani S, Raheja K, Luxami V, Paul K. A review on diverse heterocyclic compounds as the privileged scaffolds in non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors. Bioorg Chem 2021; 113:105017. [PMID: 34091288 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer, emerging malignancy is common among women due to overexpression of estrogen. Estrogens are biosynthesized from androgens by aromatase, a cytochrome P450 enzyme complex, and play a pivotal role in stimulating cell proliferation. Therefore, deprivation of estrogen by blocking aromatase is considered as the effective way for the inhibition and treatment of breast cancer. In recent years, various non-steroidal heterocyclic functionalities have been extensively developed and studied for their aromatase inhibition activity. This review provides information about the structural-activity relationship of heterocycles (Type II) towards aromatase. This aids the medicinal chemist around the significance of different heterocyclic moieties and helps to design potent aromatase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudesh Rani
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala 147001, India
| | - Konpal Raheja
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala 147001, India
| | - Vijay Luxami
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala 147001, India
| | - Kamaldeep Paul
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala 147001, India.
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Qin Y. Effects of using letrozole in combination with the GnRH antagonist protocol for patients with poor ovarian response: A meta-analysis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102139. [PMID: 33838300 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis aimed to compare the outcomes of the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist/letrozole protocol with those of the conventional GnRH antagonist protocol for poor responders undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). We searched for relevant articles in PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and retrieved 452 records. Eventually, we selected five eligible trials with data for 564 patients characterized as poor ovarian responders. Our meta-analysis revealed that the clinical pregnancy rate (per cycle) with administration of letrozole might be a higher than that in the control groups (risk rate [RR]: 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00-2.44, p = 0.05). .Moreover,it indicated that the total dose of gonadotrophin was significantly decreased with the administration of letrozole compared to control groups(mean difference [MD]: -529.37, 95% CI: -1207.45 to -111.25, p = 0.001),.However, there was no statistical difference in the number of retrieved oocytes(MD: 0.59, 95% CI: -0.36-1.54, p = 0.22), cycle cancelation rate (RR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.58-1.12, p = 0.20), or estradiol concentration on the day of HCG administration(MD: -28.19, 95% CI: -77.71-21.33, p = 0.26) in the presence or absence of letrozole combination in the GnRH antagonist protocol. In conclusion, letrozole administration might improve clinical pregnancy rate in conventional GnRH antagonist protocol for poor responders. Moreover, letrozole co-treatment aslo can reduce the economic burden of poor responders during the GnRH antagonist cycle. Nevertheless, large-scale and multi-center randomized controlled trials are needed to further evaluate the efficacy of adjunctive letrozole administration in the GnRH antagonist protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Qin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, No. 9 Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510120, China.
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Zeng MF, Zhou X, Duan JL. Stimulated cycle versus artificial cycle for frozen embryo transfer in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a Meta-analysis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:294-299. [PMID: 33426930 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1867976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Our aim is to conduct a meta-analysis comparing clinical outcomes between the mild ovarian stimulation cycle versus an artificial cycle (AC) for frozen embryo transfer (FET) in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS We systematically searched the databases of PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library from inception to January 2020. The outcomes were live birth rate (LBR), ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), embryo implantation rate (IR) and miscarriage rate (MR). The mild ovarian stimulation cycle and AC were compared according to risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals using a fixed or random effects model. RESULTS Four retrospective studies describing the clinical outcomes were included. We found no significant difference in LBR, OPR, CPR, IR or MR between the mild ovarian stimulation cycle and AC protocols, whereas a lower MR was found for the letrozole-stimulated cycle than the AC. CONCLUSIONS The letrozole-stimulated cycle for endometrial preparation in PCOS patients undergoing FET may lower the MR more than the AC. PCOS patients using the mild ovarian stimulation cycle for endometrial preparation undergoing FET had similar LBR, OPR, CPR and IR compared with the AC. The letrozole-stimulated protocol may be a reasonable choice for endometrial preparation before FET for women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Fang Zeng
- Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Guilin, PR China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Guilin, PR China
| | - Jin Liang Duan
- Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Guilin, PR China
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Infertility management in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a review. Porto Biomed J 2021; 6:e116. [PMID: 33532657 PMCID: PMC7846416 DOI: 10.1097/j.pbj.0000000000000116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common endocrine disorder in women and a major cause of anovulatory infertility. Various medical options are used, alone or in combination, to treat subfertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. This narrative review was conducted to provide an update and summarize the available evidence on the management of polycystic ovary syndrome related infertility. A wide literature search was performed and preferably randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews were included. Management is often centered on lifestyle changes. Pharmacological ovulation induction is the next step, with recommended use of letrozole, clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins. When it fails, assisted reproductive technologies or laparoscopic ovarian drilling are frequently advised. Combination treatment with metformin is often recommended. More recent alternative and adjunctive treatments have been suggested, like inositol, vitamin D, bariatric surgery and acupuncture, but further research is needed for recommendation.
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38
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Shulman Y, Almog B, Kalma Y, Fouks Y, Azem F, Cohen Y. Effects of letrozole or tamoxifen coadministered with a standard stimulation protocol on fertility preservation among breast cancer patients. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:743-750. [PMID: 33409757 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02030-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the effects of letrozole or tamoxifen coadministration on fertility preservation treatment outcomes. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of 118 breast cancer patients undergoing fertility preservation treatment between 2008 and 2018. Patients who received letrozole (n = 36) or tamoxifen (n = 30) were compared to controls (n = 52) who underwent standard ovarian stimulation protocols. The primary outcome measures included the number of retrieved oocytes, mature oocytes (MII), fertilization, and top-quality embryo rates. The secondary outcome measures included duration of stimulation, gonadotropin dose and peak estradiol level. RESULTS The number of oocytes retrieved, MII oocytes, fertilization rate, duration of stimulation, or gonadotropin dose were similar in the letrozole and tamoxifen groups, compared to controls. Top-quality embryo rate was lower in the tamoxifen group compared to controls (25% vs 39.4%, respectively, P = 0.034). The abnormal fertilization rate was higher in the letrozole group compared to controls (7.8% vs 3.60%, respectively, P = 0.015). A stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed that letrozole and peak estradiol were significantly associated with abnormal fertilization (OR 11.94; 95% CI 2.35-60.4, P = 0.003 for letrozole and OR 1.075; 95% CI 1.024-1.12, P = 0.004 per 100 unit change in estradiol). CONCLUSIONS There may be a negative effect of letrozole or tamoxifen on fertilization and embryo quality, in fertility preservation cycles. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Shulman
- IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Benny Almog
- IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Kalma
- IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yuval Fouks
- IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Foad Azem
- IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoni Cohen
- IVF Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Pundir J, Achilli C, Bhide P, Sabatini L, Legro RS, Rombauts L, Teede H, Coomarasamy A, Zamora J, Thangaratinam S. Risk of foetal harm with letrozole use in fertility treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:474-485. [PMID: 33374012 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aromatase inhibitor letrozole is increasingly recommended for ovulation induction, as it is more effective with fewer side-effects than other agents. But many clinicians are reluctant to use the drug for fertility treatment due to a strong-label warning against its use, which warns about congenital malformation risk to the foetus in women seeking pregnancy. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this study was to determine the risks of congenital malformations and pregnancy loss with letrozole compared with clomiphene primarily, and with other fertility drugs and natural conception. SEARCH METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis using PRISMA harms guidelines. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and other sources from inception until January 2020, with the MeSH words for 'letrozole' and pregnancy OR foetal/neonatal outcome. We included studies reported on congenital malformations in foetuses born to mothers conceived after fertility treatment, with letrozole versus clomiphene, placebo, gonadotrophins, metformin, natural conception or other agents, from randomised trials, comparative cohort studies and non-comparative observational cohorts. Quality of the studies was assessed using Cochrane risk of bias tool and Newcastle Ottawa Scale. The McMaster tool was used to assess the quality of reported harm for foetal congenital malformations in the studies. We compared the absolute risk of events using risk difference measures and pooled the findings using a fixed-effect model. We evaluated the statistical heterogeneity using forest plots and the I2 statistic and funnel plot to assess publication bias. We assessed the strength of evidence for congenital malformation and pregnancy loss as per the GRADE recommendations and with the Fragility index. OUTCOMES We included 46 studies (18 randomised trials; 21 comparative cohorts; 7 non-comparative cohorts). Overall 2.15% (101/4697; 95% CI 1.7 to 2.5) of babies conceived on letrozole for fertility treatment had congenital foetal malformations. We did not observe a significant increase in congenital malformations with letrozole versus clomiphene in the randomised trials (risk difference (RD) 0.01, 95% CI -0.02, 0.03; I2 = 0%; 14 studies) and found a significant reduction in the cohort studies (RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.04, -0.01; I2 = 0%, 11 studies). The fragility index was 44% (7/16) (either an increase in the intervention arm or a decrease in control arm was needed to alter the results). The risks of pregnancy loss were not increased with letrozole versus clomiphene in the 14 randomised trials (RD -0.01, 95% CI -0.06, 0.04; I2 = 0%), and the risks were reduced in the six cohort studies (RD -0.09, 95% CI -0.17, -0.00; I2 = 68%). The GRADE quality of evidence was low to moderate for congenital malformations and pregnancy loss. We did not find any increased congenital malformation risk with letrozole versus gonadotrophins, natural conception or natural cycle ART, but the number of studies was small. WIDER IMPLICATIONS There is no evidence that letrozole increases the risk of congenital foetal malformation or pregnancy loss compared with clomiphene, natural conception or other fertility agents, to warrant warning against its use. Given its therapeutic benefits and lack of evidence of harm to the foetus, clinicians should consider letrozole as first-line agent for ovulation induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Pundir
- Queen Mary University, London E1 4NS, UK.,Centre for Reproductive Medicine, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London EC1A 7BE, UK
| | - Chiara Achilli
- Hewitt Fertility Centre, Liverpool Women's Hospital, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - Priya Bhide
- Centre for Women's Health, Queen Mary University of London, E1 2AB, UK.,Homerton University Hospital, London E9 6SR, UK
| | - Luca Sabatini
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London EC1A 7BE, UK
| | - Richard S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn State University College of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Helena Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Javier Zamora
- CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health, Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Hospital Ramon y Cajal Ctra, Madrid 28034, Spain.,Women's Health Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London
| | - Shakila Thangaratinam
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.,Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT UK
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Starosta A, Gordon CE, Hornstein MD. Predictive factors for intrauterine insemination outcomes: a review. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 6:23. [PMID: 33308319 PMCID: PMC7731622 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-020-00092-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a frequently utilized method of assisted reproduction for patients with mild male factor infertility, anovulation, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility. The purpose of this review is to discuss factors that affect IUI outcomes, including infertility diagnosis, semen parameters, and stimulation regimens. METHODS We reviewed the published literature to evaluate how patient and cycle specific factors affect IUI outcomes, specifically clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, spontaneous abortion rate and multiple pregnancy rate. RESULTS Most data support IUI for men with a total motile count > 5 million and post-wash sperm count > 1 million. High sperm DNA fragmentation does not consistently affect pregnancy rates in IUI cycles. Advancing maternal and paternal age negatively impact pregnancy rates. Paternal obesity contributes to infertility while elevated maternal BMI increases medication requirements without impacting pregnancy outcomes. For ovulation induction, letrozole and clomiphene citrate result in similar pregnancy outcomes and are recommended over gonadotropins given increased risk for multiple pregnancies with gonadotropins. Letrozole is preferred for obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. IUI is most effective for women with ovulatory dysfunction and unexplained infertility, and least effective for women with tubal factor and stage III-IV endometriosis. Outcomes are similar when IUI is performed with ovulation trigger or spontaneous ovulatory surge, and ovulation may be monitored by urine or serum. Most pregnancies occur within the first four IUI cycles, after which in vitro fertilization should be considered. CONCLUSIONS Providers recommending IUI for treatment of infertility should take into account all of these factors when evaluating patients and making treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel Starosta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts, Boston, USA.
| | - Catherine E Gordon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts, Boston, USA
| | - Mark D Hornstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts, Boston, USA
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Martin CE. Novel letrozole dosing: is a single dose of letrozole equivalent to traditional 5-day dosing? F S Rep 2020; 1:170. [PMID: 34223236 PMCID: PMC8244345 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility and Reproductive Medicine Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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Bansal S, Goyal M, Sharma C, Shekhar S. Letrozole versus clomiphene citrate for ovulation induction in anovulatory women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2020; 152:345-350. [PMID: 32920843 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy of letrozole and clomiphene citrate (CC) for ovulation induction in infertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). METHODS In this assessor blind, randomized controlled trial, 90 infertile women with PCOS were randomized to receive either letrozole or CC for ovulation induction in incremental doses for a maximum of three cycles. Main outcome measures studied were endometrial thickness, ovulation rate, pregnancy rate, rate of monofollicular development, and time to conception. RESULTS Mean endometrial thicknesses were 9.86 ± 2.32 mm and 9.39 ± 2.06 mm with letrozole and CC, respectively (P=0.751). Cumulative ovulation rates were 86.7% and 85.2% with letrozole and CC, respectively (P=0.751). Pregnancy was achieved in 42.2% of women in the letrozole group and 20.0% of women in the CC group (P=0.04). Monofollicular development was seen in 68.4% of ovulatory cycles in the letrozole group compared with 44.8% in the CC group (P=0.000). Mean time to achieve pregnancy was significantly shorter (log rank P=0.042) with letrozole (9.65 weeks) than with CC (11.07 weeks). CONCLUSION Letrozole is a better alternative for ovulation induction in anovulatory women with PCOS as pregnancy rates are higher, time to pregnancy is shorter, and chances of multiple pregnancy are less because of high monofollicular growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shavina Bansal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Manu Goyal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Shashank Shekhar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
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Endometrial thickness after ovarian stimulation with gonadotropin, clomiphene, or letrozole for unexplained infertility, and association with treatment outcomes. Fertil Steril 2020; 115:213-220. [PMID: 32972733 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the association of endometrial thickness (EMT) with live birth rates (LBR) in ovarian stimulation with intrauterine insemination (OS-IUI) treatments for unexplained infertility. DESIGN Prospective cohort analysis of the Reproductive Medicine Network's Assessment of Multiple Intrauterine Gestations from Ovarian Stimulation (AMIGOS) randomized controlled trial. SETTING Multicenter randomized controlled trial. PATIENTS A total of 868 couples with unexplained infertility (n=2,459 cycles). INTERVENTIONS OS-IUI treatment cycles (n = 2,459) as part of the AMIGOS clinical trial. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Live birth rates; unadjusted and adjusted risk ratios (RR) for live birth by EMT category, calculated using generalized estimating equations. RESULTS The overall mean EMT on day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration in cycles with a live birth was significantly greater than in those without. Compared to the referent EMT group of 9 to 12 mm, the unadjusted RR for live birth for the EMT groups of ≤5 and 6-8 were 0.48 and 0.92, respectively. The test for trend indicated evidence of decreasing LBR with decreasing EMT. After adjustment for ovarian stimulation medication, a linear trend was no longer supported. Stratified analyses revealed no differences in associations by treatment group. CONCLUSIONS In OS-IUI for unexplained infertility, higher LBR are observed with increasing EMT; however, EMT is not significantly associated with LBR when adjusted for OS treatment type. Appreciable LBR are seen at all EMT, even those of ≤5 mm, suggesting that OS-IUI cycles should not be canceled for thin endometrium. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01044862.
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Chen D, Shen X, Fu Y, Ding C, Zhong Y, Zhou C. Pregnancy Outcomes Following Letrozole Use in Frozen-thawed Embryo Transfer Cycles: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020; 80:820-833. [PMID: 32817989 PMCID: PMC7428376 DOI: 10.1055/a-1202-2059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While widely used for ovulation induction in assisted reproductive technology, the clinical efficacy of letrozole for endometrial preparation prior to frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles remains yet to be elucidated. We performed a meta-analysis to compare pregnancy outcomes after letrozole use with those of other endometrial preparation protocols in patients undergoing FET. PubMed, Scopus, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched for eligible studies. Clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR) and birth defect rate (BDR) were analysed using odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of 10 studies representing 75 968 FET cycles were included. Comparable CPR and LBR were observed when comparing letrozole administration with natural cycle (OR 1.24, 95% CI: 0.69 – 2.24; OR 1.18, 95% CI: 0.60 – 2.32), artificial cycle (OR 1.46, 95% CI: 0.87 – 2.44; OR 1.39, 95% CI: 0.77 – 2.52), and artificial cycle with gonadotropin-releasing hormone
agonist suppression (OR 1.11, 95% CI: 0.78 – 1.59; OR 1.18, 95% CI: 0.82 – 1.68). Pooled results of the limited studies comparing letrozole with human menopausal gonadotropin demonstrated a similar CPR between groups (OR 1.46, 95% CI: 0.29 – 7.21, two studies), but the letrozole group had a statistically lower LBR (OR 0.67, 95% CI: 0.52 – 0.86, one study). No increased BDR was observed in the letrozole group compared to natural cycles or artificial cycles (OR 0.98, 95% CI: 0.60 – 1.61; OR 1.39, 95% CI; 0.84 – 2.28). This pooled analysis supports the use of letrozole as an efficacious and safe alternative to mainstream regimens for endometrial preparation in FET cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongjia Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoting Shen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenhui Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiping Zhong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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Yamaguchi Y, Nishizono N, Oda K. Evaluation of Synthesized Ester or Amide Coumarin Derivatives on Aromatase Inhibitory Activity. Biol Pharm Bull 2020; 43:1179-1187. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b20-00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yamaguchi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido
| | - Naozumi Nishizono
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido
| | - Kazuaki Oda
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido
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Qin F, Zhou Y, Huan L, Gui W. Comparison of clomiphene and letrozole for superovulation in patients with unexplained infertility undergoing intrauterine insemination: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e21006. [PMID: 32756085 PMCID: PMC7402796 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000021006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the medical advancement some studies put forward that letrozole (LE), a specific aromatase inhibitor with the function of reducing oestrogen synthesis, has recently been applied as a potentially better alternative compared with clomiphene citrate (CC), owing to that it has a superior efficacy as compared with CC in patients of unexplained infertility undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI). However, there is no one study can clear and definite whether LE can replace the CC as first line drug. OBJECTIVE Our objective is to compare the LE with CC in the induction of ovulation in patients with unexplained infertility IUI. METHOD Searching databases consist of all kinds of searching tools, such as Medline, The Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, etc. All the include studies should meet our demand of this meta-analysis: RESULT:: Based on the current meta-analysis, we rigorously consider that LE has a likelihood to improve dominant follicles (MD= -0.56, I= 100%, P= .04; MD= -0.39, I= 73%, P = .0003, respectively) and reduces the miscarriage rate (RR= 0.61, I= 0%, P = .03). There is no significant differences between the 2 groups in The total rate of pregnancy, pregnancy rate per cycle, multiple pregnancy and endometrial thickness. (RR= 1.06, I= 11%, P = .38; RR= 1.09, I= 7%, P = .32; RR= 0.79, I= 0%, P = .46; respectively) CONCLUSION:: Combined with the results of current systematic review and meta-analysis through subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis, we can be cautious: in general, compared with CC, LE is an effective treatment in the IUI cycle, has a likelihood to improve dominant follicles and reduces the miscarriage rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Qin
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
| | - Yanqiong Zhou
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
| | - Lu Huan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the Chongqing Fifth People's Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenwu Gui
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
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Della Corte L, Foreste V, Barra F, Gustavino C, Alessandri F, Centurioni MG, Ferrero S, Bifulco G, Giampaolino P. Current and experimental drug therapy for the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:819-830. [PMID: 32543238 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1781815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that affects 8-13% of reproductive-age women. Irregular periods, hirsutism, or infertility are the most common clinical presentations of patients affected by PCOS. This syndrome is also linked to metabolic abnormalities such as type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance and obesity. The optimal therapeutic approach is still unknown. AREAS COVERED This narrative review offers an overview of the literature on current and experimental pharmacological options for treating PCOS and highlights ongoing clinical trials. Several electronic databases were searched and current research registers were analyzed to the present year. The papers selected for this review were critically analyzed, and all data available were summarized, organized, and explored to derive key information. EXPERT OPINION The main goal of PCOS treatment is to obtain a metabolic and hormonal balance. Optimal PCOS therapy should be direct to the reproductive abnormalities and the entire spectrum of endocrine and metabolic complications that appear to have a long-term negative impact on PCOS patient health, as in post-menopausal period. The discovery of new mechanisms in PCOS pathogenesis will offer the possibility of testing new drug classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Della Corte
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples, Italy
| | - Virginia Foreste
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (Dinogmi), University of Genoa , Genoa, Italy
| | - Claudio Gustavino
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa, Italy
| | - Franco Alessandri
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Simone Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (Dinogmi), University of Genoa , Genoa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bifulco
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II" , Naples, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Giampaolino
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II , Naples, Italy
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Shapira M, Orvieto R, Lebovitz O, Nahum R, Aizer A, Segev-Zahav A, Haas J. Does daily co administration of gonadotropins and letrozole during the ovarian stimulation improve IVF outcome for poor and sub optimal responders? J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:66. [PMID: 32513279 PMCID: PMC7282086 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00666-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Co-administration of letrozole during the first 5 days of ovarian stimulation was suggested to improve IVF outcomes in poor responders. We aimed to determine whether poor/sub-optimal responders might benefit from Letrozole co-treatment throughout the entire stimulation course. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical files of women who demonstrated poor (oocyte yield ≤3) and sub-optimal (4 ≤ oocyte yield ≤9) ovarian response during conventional multiple-dose antagonist stimulation protocols and were co-treated in a subsequent cycle with 5 mg Letrozole from the first day of stimulation until trigger day. A self-paired comparison between gonadotropins-only and gonadotropins-letrozole cycles was performed. Results Twenty-four patients were included. Mean patients’ age was 39.83 ± 4.60 and mean day-3-FSH was 12.77 ± 4.49 IU/m. Duration of stimulation and total gonadotropins dose were comparable between the two cycle groups. Peak estradiol levels were significantly lower in gonadotropins-letrozole cycles (2786.74 ± 2118.53 vs 1200.13 ± 535.98, p < 0.05). Number of retrieved oocytes (3.29 ± 2.15 vs 6.46 ± 3.20, p < 0.05), MII-oocytes (2.47 ± 1.65 vs 5.59 ± 3.20, p < 0.05), 2PN-embryos (1.78 ± 1.50, 4.04 ± 2.74, p < 0.05) and top-quality embryos (0.91 ± 0.97 vs. 2.35 ± 1.66, p < 0.05) were significantly higher in the gonadotropins-letrozole cycles. Clinical pregnancy rate in gonadotropins-letrozole cycles was 31.5%. Conclusion Letrozole co-treatment during the entire stimulation course improves ovarian response and IVF outcomes in poor/sub-optimal responders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moran Shapira
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Raoul Orvieto
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Oshrit Lebovitz
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ravit Nahum
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Adva Aizer
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Aliza Segev-Zahav
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Jigal Haas
- IVF unit, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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Wang R, Li W, Bordewijk EM, Legro RS, Zhang H, Wu X, Gao J, Morin-Papunen L, Homburg R, König TE, Moll E, Kar S, Huang W, Johnson NP, Amer SA, Vegetti W, Palomba S, Falbo A, Özmen Ü, Nazik H, Williams CD, Federica G, Lord J, Sahin Y, Bhattacharya S, Norman RJ, van Wely M, Mol BW. First-line ovulation induction for polycystic ovary syndrome: an individual participant data meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:717-732. [PMID: 31647106 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most frequent cause of anovulatory infertility. In women with PCOS, effective ovulation induction serves as an important first-line treatment for anovulatory infertility. Individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis is considered as the gold standard for evidence synthesis which provides accurate assessments of outcomes from primary randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and allows additional analyses for time-to-event outcomes. It also facilitates treatment-covariate interaction analyses and therefore offers an opportunity for personalised medicine. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different ovulation induction agents, in particular letrozole alone and clomiphene citrate (CC) plus metformin, as compared to CC alone, as the first-line choice for ovulation induction in women with PCOS and infertility, and to explore interactions between treatment and participant-level baseline characteristics. SEARCH METHODS We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to 20 December 2018. We included RCTs comparing the following interventions with each other or placebo/no treatment in women with PCOS and infertility: CC, metformin, CC plus metformin, letrozole, gonadotrophin and tamoxifen. We excluded studies on treatment-resistant women. The primary outcome was live birth. We contacted the investigators of eligible RCTs to share the IPD and performed IPD meta-analyses. We assessed the risk of bias by using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for RCTs. OUTCOMES IPD of 20 RCTs including 3962 women with PCOS were obtained. Six RCTs compared letrozole and CC in 1284 women. Compared with CC, letrozole improved live birth rates (3 RCTs, 1043 women, risk ratio [RR] 1.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-1.75, moderate-certainty evidence) and clinical pregnancy rates (6 RCTs, 1284 women, RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.23-1.70, moderate-certainty evidence) and reduced time-to-pregnancy (6 RCTs, 1235 women, hazard ratio [HR] 1.72, 95% CI 1.38-2.15, moderate-certainty evidence). Meta-analyses of effect modifications showed a positive interaction between baseline serum total testosterone levels and treatment effects on live birth (interaction RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.01-1.65). Eight RCTs compared CC plus metformin to CC alone in 1039 women. Compared with CC alone, CC plus metformin might improve clinical pregnancy rates (8 RCTs, 1039 women, RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.00-1.39, low-certainty evidence) and might reduce time-to-pregnancy (7 RCTs, 898 women, HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.00-1.57, low-certainty evidence), but there was insufficient evidence of a difference on live birth rates (5 RCTs, 907 women, RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.87-1.35, low-certainty evidence). Meta-analyses of effect modifications showed a positive interaction between baseline insulin levels and treatment effects on live birth in the comparison between CC plus metformin and CC (interaction RR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06). WIDER IMPLICATIONS In women with PCOS, letrozole improves live birth and clinical pregnancy rates and reduces time-to-pregnancy compared to CC and therefore can be recommended as the preferred first-line treatment for women with PCOS and infertility. CC plus metformin may increase clinical pregnancy and may reduce time-to-pregnancy compared to CC alone, while there is insufficient evidence of a difference on live birth. Treatment effects of letrozole are influenced by baseline serum levels of total testosterone, while those of CC plus metformin are affected by baseline serum levels of insulin. These interactions between treatments and biomarkers on hyperandrogenaemia and insulin resistance provide further insights into a personalised approach for the management of anovulatory infertility related to PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Wentao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Esmée M Bordewijk
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Richard S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Heping Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CO, USA
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jingshu Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Laure Morin-Papunen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Research Center, PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Roy Homburg
- Homerton Fertility Centre, Homerton University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Tamar E König
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Etelka Moll
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG) West, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sujata Kar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kar Clinic and Hospital, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Neil P Johnson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Saad A Amer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - Walter Vegetti
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Palomba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Angela Falbo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Ülkü Özmen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Kozlu, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Hakan Nazik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adana City Training and Research Hospital, Adana, Turkey
| | | | - Grasso Federica
- Department of Surgery Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jonathan Lord
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
| | - Yilmaz Sahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | | | - Robert J Norman
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Fertility SA, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ben Willem Mol
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
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Mehdinejadiani S, Amidi F, Mehdizadeh M, Barati M, Pazhohan A, Alyasin A, Mehdinejadiani K, Sobhani A. Effects of letrozole and clomiphene citrate on Wnt signaling pathway in endometrium of polycystic ovarian syndrome and healthy women†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:641-648. [PMID: 30184105 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. In addition to anovulation, endometrial dysfunction can reduce fertility in PCOS. The cyclical changes of endometrium are controlled by estrogen and progesterone via modulating the Wnt/B-catenin pathway. Clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole are used to induce ovulation; unlike letrozole, there is a discrepancy between ovulation and pregnancy rates in CC-treated cycles. Because of the anti-estrogenic effects of CC on endometrium, we compared the expression of the key molecules of the Wnt/B-catenin pathway in the endometrium of women taking CC and letrozole. This study included PCOS and healthy women divided into the groups stimulated with letrozole (5 mg) or CC (100 mg) as well as NO-treatment groups. The endometrial thickness and hormonal profile were measured on day 12 of the menses. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot, we evaluated mRNA and protein expression of B-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3B), dickkopf Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor 1 (DKK1), and estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) in the endometrial samples. Significantly, the mean serum estrogen and progesterone were lower and higher, respectively, in letrozole than CC groups. The endometrial thickness was significantly reduced in CC. The proteins expression of active B-catenin, inactive GSK3B, and ESR1 were significantly decreased in CC-treated groups. The mRNA and protein assessment of DKK1 showed significantly higher expression in CC. Our results indicate that letrozole can provide an acceptable activation of the Wnt/B-catenin pathway, resulting in adequate proliferation of endometrium in the women receiving letrozole compared to CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayesteh Mehdinejadiani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Endocrinology and Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Barati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azar Pazhohan
- Department of Midwifery, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran.,Infertility center of Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, East Azarbaijan, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ashraf Alyasin
- Department of Endocrinology and Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kobra Mehdinejadiani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aligholi Sobhani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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