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Thabet M, Abdelhafez MS, Elshamy MR, Albahlol IA, Fayala E, Wageeh A, El-Zayadi AA, Bahgat NA, Mohammed SM, Mohamed AA, Awad MM, El-Menayyer A, El-Sherbiny M, Elsherbini DMA, Albarakati RG, Alshaikh ABA, Edris FE, Bushaqer NJ, Salama YGM, Abdel-razik MM. Competence of Combined Low Dose of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) and Clomiphene Citrate (CC) Versus Continued CC during Ovulation Induction in Women with CC-Resistant Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:1300. [PMID: 39202581 PMCID: PMC11356540 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60081300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a widespread endocrine disorder affecting 5-18% of females in their childbearing age. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of combining a low dosage of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) along with clomiphene citrate (CC) for stimulating ovulation in infertile women diagnosed with CC-resistant PCOS. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out on 300 infertile CC-resistant PCOS women. All participants were assigned to two groups: the CC-HCG group and the CC-Placebo group. Subjects in the CC-HCG group were given CC (150 mg/day for 5 days starting on the 2nd day of the cycle) and HCG (200 IU/day SC starting on the 7th day of the cycle). Subjects in the CC-Placebo group were given CC and a placebo. The number of ovarian follicles > 18 mm, cycle cancellation rate, endometrial thickness, ovulation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and occurrence of early ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome were all outcome variables in the primary research. Results: Data from 138 individuals in the CC-HCG group and 131 participants in the CC-Placebo group were subjected to final analysis. In comparison to the CC-Placebo group, the cycle cancellation rate in the CC-HCG group was considerably lower. The CC-HCG group exhibited a substantial increase in ovarian follicles reaching > 18 mm, endometrial thickness, and ovulation rate. The clinical pregnancy rate was higher in the CC-HCG group (7.2% vs. 2.3%; CC-HCG vs. CC-Placebo). Upon adjusting for BMI and age, the findings of our study revealed that individuals in the CC-HCG group who had serum prolactin levels below 20 (ng/mL), secondary infertility, infertility duration less than 4 years, baseline LH/FSH ratios below 1.5, and serum AMH levels more than 4 (ng/mL) had a higher likelihood of achieving pregnancy. In the CC-Placebo group, there was a greater prediction of clinical pregnancy for those with serum AMH (<4), primary infertility, serum prolactin ≤ 20 (ng/mL), baseline LH/FSH < 1.5, and infertility duration < 4 years. Conclusions: The use of a small dose of HCG along with CC appeared to be an effective treatment in reducing cycle cancelation, improving the clinical pregnancy rate and ovulation rate in CC-resistant PCOS patients. The trial was registered with Clinical Trials.gov, identifier NCT02436226.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Thabet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Mohamed Sayed Abdelhafez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Maged Ragheb Elshamy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Ibrahim A. Albahlol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Emad Fayala
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Alaa Wageeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Ahmed Abdelhamid El-Zayadi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Nagwan Ahmed Bahgat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Shereen M. Mohammed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Alhussein Ahmed Mohamed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Mahmoud Mohamed Awad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Ahmed El-Menayyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
| | - Mohamed El-Sherbiny
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, P.O. Box 71666, Riyadh 11597, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | | | - Rayan G. Albarakati
- Department of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, P.O. Box 71666, Riyadh 11597, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ahmed Baker A. Alshaikh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fawaz E. Edris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Umm AlQura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Nayla Jamal Bushaqer
- Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) Hospital, Riffa P.O. Box 28743, Bahrain; (N.J.B.); (Y.G.M.S.)
| | | | - Mahmoud Mohamed Abdel-razik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt; (M.T.); (M.S.A.); (M.R.E.); (I.A.A.); (E.F.); (A.W.); (A.A.E.-Z.); (N.A.B.); (S.M.M.); (A.A.M.); (M.M.A.); (A.E.-M.); (M.M.A.-r.)
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Abu-Zaid A, Gari A, Sabban H, Alshahrani MS, Khadawardi K, Badghish E, AlSghan R, Bukhari IA, Alyousef A, Abuzaid M, Alsharif SA, Alomar O, Alamery AH, Baradwan S. Comparison of Letrozole and Clomiphene Citrate in Pregnancy Outcomes in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:883-905. [PMID: 38030814 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01404-8] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole are the predominant medical interventions for the management of infertility in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To comprehensively summarize the evidence, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was carried out to assess the effect of letrozole and CC on pregnancy outcomes in PCOS patients. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to January 2023. We included RCTs conducted on PCOS women comparing letrozole to CC and assessing endometrial thickness, the number and size of follicles, and ovulation and pregnancy rates. The endpoints were summarized as risk ratio (RR) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity was examined using the I2 statistic. Fifty trials met our inclusion criteria. The mean endometrial thickness was significantly higher in the letrozole group compared to CC group (SMD: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.49, 1.28; I2=97.72%); however, the number of follicles was higher in the CC group (SMD: -0.56; 95% CI: -0.96, -0.17; I2=96.34%). Furthermore, letrozole intake induced higher ovulation rate (RR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.26; I2=54.49%) and pregnancy rate (RR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.28, 1.62; I2=65.58%) compared to CC. Compared to CC, letrozole has a positive effect on endometrial thickness, monofollicular development, and ovulation and pregnancy rates suggesting that letrozole may be a strong alternative to CC as a first-line medical intervention for chronic anovulation in PCOS women. Larger studies are warranted to further clarify these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abu-Zaid
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Abdulrahim Gari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Almurjan Hospital, Jeddah, 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 at Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Saeed Alshahrani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Khadawardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ehab Badghish
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity and Children Hospital, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan AlSghan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity and Children Hospital, AlKharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibtihal Abdulaziz Bukhari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alyousef
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Abuzaid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Muhayil General Hospital, Muhayil, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saud Abdullah Alsharif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Alomar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aliyah Hadi Alamery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Specialized Medical Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed Baradwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Chera-Aree P, Tanpong S, Thanaboonyawat I, Laokirkkiat P. Clomiphene citrate plus letrozole versus clomiphene citrate alone for ovulation induction in infertile women with ovulatory dysfunction: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:602. [PMID: 37964246 PMCID: PMC10647029 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02773-7] [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: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the combination of clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole to that of CC alone in inducing ovulation in infertile women with ovulatory dysfunction. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a single academic medical center between November 2020 and December 2021. Anovulatory infertility females, aged 18 to 40, were evenly distributed by a computer-generated block of four into two treatment groups. A "combination group" received a daily dose of CC (50 mg) and letrozole (2.5 mg), while a "CC-alone group" received a daily dose of CC alone (50 mg). The study medications were administered on days 3 through 7 of menstrual cycle. The primary outcome was the ovulation rate, defined by serum progesterone levels exceeding 3 ng/mL at the mid-luteal phase. The secondary outcomes were ovulation induction cycle characteristics, endometrial thickness, conception rate, and adverse events. RESULTS One hundred women (50 per group) were enrolled in the study. The mean age was not significantly different in both groups: 31.8 years in the combination group and 32.4 years in the CC-alone groups (P = 0.54). The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome in the combination and CC-alone groups was 48% and 44%, respectively (P = 0.841). According to intention-to-treat analysis, the ovulation rates were 78% and 70% in the combination and CC-alone groups, respectively (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the mean endometrial thickness or the number of dominant follicles of the groups. No serious adverse events were observed in either group. CONCLUSIONS Our study found no significant difference between the combination of CC and letrozole and CC alone in inducing ovulation in infertile women with ovulatory dysfunction in one cycle. The small number of live births precluded any meaningful statistical analysis. Further studies are needed to validate and extend our findings beyond the scope of the current study. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered at https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org with the following number: TCTR20201108004 and was approved on 08/11/2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pattraporn Chera-Aree
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Sirikul Tanpong
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Isarin Thanaboonyawat
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Pitak Laokirkkiat
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
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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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Elkhalifa WS, Suliman HM, Abdoon IH, Mohamed W, Osman B. Letrozole vs clomiphene citrate in Sudanese patients with infertility secondary to polycystic ovary syndrome. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18107. [PMID: 37483825 PMCID: PMC10362321 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18107] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
PCOS is a cluster of metabolic, hormonal, and environmental factors coupled with infertility in patients within reproductive age. This cross-sectional study compared letrozole (LTZ) vs Clomiphene citrate (CC) as ovulation inducers in infertile Sudanese patients with PCOS. Follicles ≥18 mm and pregnancy tests were used for comparison. SPSS version 23 was used for analysis. Significance was calculated with Chi-square, t-test, and logistic regression. P ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.Our results showed 49% of the patients were 20-30 years old, 60% had secondary infertility 98.4% were secondary to PCOS and 64% had a family history of infertility. Comparable results on positive pregnancy tests of 26% (P ≤ 0.017) and 17% (P ≤ 0.027) were observed for LTZ vs CC respectively. Similar strengths (P ≤ 0.000) in compacting the ovarian cysts were recorded. LTZ showed less activity (P ≤ 0.013) on follicles size maturation compared to (P ≤ 0.000) with CC. The endometrial thickness was increased with LTZ (51.87%) but reduced with CC (25.54%). The positive pregnancy test was associated with age and BMI. Conclusion Letrozole 20 mg single dose showed comparable results on positive pregnancy tests but less significance on follicle maturation compared to CC100mg. Both drugs compacted the ovarian cysts' sizes. letrozole significantly increased the endometrial lining thickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warda Salah Elkhalifa
- Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Hayat Mohamed Suliman
- Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Iman H. Abdoon
- Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Bashier Osman
- Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Sudan
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Peng G, Yan Z, Liu Y, Li J, Ma J, Tong N, Wang Y. The effects of first-line pharmacological treatments for reproductive outcomes in infertile women with PCOS: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:24. [PMID: 36869381 PMCID: PMC9983155 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01075-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility in reproductive-age women. However, the efficacy and optimal therapeutic strategy for reproductive outcomes are still under debate. We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to compare the efficacy of different first-line pharmacological therapies in terms of reproductive outcomes for women with PCOS and infertility. METHODS A systematic retrieval of databases was conducted, and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of pharmacological interventions for infertile PCOS women were included. The primary outcomes were clinical pregnancy and live birth, and the secondary outcomes were miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and multiple pregnancy. A network meta-analysis based on a Bayesian model was performed to compare the effects of the pharmacological strategies. RESULTS A total of 27 RCTs with 12 interventions were included, and all therapies tended to increase clinical pregnancy, especially pioglitazone (PIO) (log OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.56 ~ 4.70, moderate confidence), clomiphene citrate (CC) + exenatide (EXE) (2.96, 1.07 ~ 4.82, moderate confidence) and CC + metformin (MET) + PIO (2.82, 0.99 ~ 4.60, moderate confidence). Moreover, CC + MET + PIO (2.8, -0.25 ~ 6.06, very low confidence) could increase live birth most when compared to placebo, even without a significant difference. For secondary outcomes, PIO showed a tendency to increase miscarriage (1.44, -1.69 ~ 5.28, very low confidence). MET (-11.25, -33.7 ~ 0.57, low confidence) and LZ + MET (-10.44, -59.56 ~ 42.11, very low confidence) were beneficial for decreasing ectopic pregnancy. MET (0.07, -4.26 ~ 4.34, low confidence) showed a neutral effect in multiple pregnancy. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no significant difference between these medications and placebo in obese participants. CONCLUSIONS Most first-line pharmacological treatments were effective in improving clinical pregnancy. CC + MET + PIO should be recommended as the optimal therapeutic strategy to improve pregnancy outcomes. However, none of the above treatments had a beneficial effect on clinical pregnancy in obese PCOS. TRIAL REGISTRATION CRD42020183541; 05 July 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Peng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhe Yan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuqi Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jinfang Ma
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Nanwei Tong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, West China 2nd University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Letrozole Compared With Clomiphene Citrate for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:523-534. [PMID: 36735392 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the effect of letrozole and clomiphene citrate in women with infertility and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION MEDLINE through PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for relevant studies from inception to February 1, 2022. Two reviewers retrieved, filtered, and extracted data independently using the bibliographic software EndNote X9 and Excel workbook. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting ovulation induction outcomes in women with infertility and PCOS treated with either letrozole or clomiphene citrate followed by timed intercourse or intrauterine insemination. The data were merged into a mean difference or risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI, depending on variable types. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS Data collection and organization were conducted in accordance with the 2020 PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses) statement. Twenty-nine RCTs were eligible, which included 3,952 women and 7,633 ovulation induction cycles. We acquired evidence from 22 RCTs for the ovulation rate, 28 RCTs for the clinical pregnancy rate, and eight RCTs for live-birth rate. Pooled analysis indicated that letrozole treatment prevailed against clomiphene citrate in ovulation rate (RR 1.14, 95% CI 1.06-1.21, P <.001), clinical pregnancy rate (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.34-1.63, P <.001), and live-birth rate (RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.27-1.74, P <.001). CONCLUSIONS Letrozole was associated with improved ovulation, pregnancy, and live-birth rates compared with clomiphene citrate. We recommend letrozole over clomiphene citrate as an ovulation induction drug in women with infertility and PCOS, although the quality of the evidence is mixed. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO, CRD42022308777.
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Rababa’h AM, Matani BR, Yehya A. An update of polycystic ovary syndrome: causes and therapeutics options. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11010. [PMID: 36267367 PMCID: PMC9576888 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by menstrual irregularities, chronic anovulation, hirsutism, androgenic alopecia, and acne. At diagnosis, patients can with different manifestations according to the disease phenotype, patient's age, and lifestyle. However, most patients pursue medical care because of the clinical symptoms of PCOS, such as hyperandrogenism, menstrual irregularities and infertility. Recent studies have shown that PCOS is associated with 80% of anovulatory infertility; however, the precise mechanism of PCOS-induced anovulation is still undetermined. The treatment strategies of PCOS are symptomatic depending mainly on the desired goals and clinical benefits. Life style intervention is still the first line treatment option for overweight females seeking pregnancy. In addition, there are many pharmacological agents that could be added to induce ovulation such as metformin, and clomiphene citrate. Nowadays, many patients preferred to use some herbal medicine that was proved to have potential therapeutic benefits in many studies in the management of PCOS. The purpose of this review was to discuss PCOS-induced infertility and the available therapeutic options as well as the impact of COVID-19 infection on the success of fertility attempts. To address this purpose, Pubmed, Scopus, EMBASE and Google databases were searched for studies discussing PCOS-induced infertility. The literature search revealed the proper therapeutic plans to treat PCOS-induced infertility, and that treatment should be modified according to patient's complaints, reproductive desires, and disease phenotypes. In conclusion, the use of specific therapeutic agents and patients' adherence to lifestyle interventions could help patients recover their reproductive and metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeer M. Rababa’h
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; College of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Bayan R. Matani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy; College of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Alaa Yehya
- Department of Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
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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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Ghobrial S, Parry JP, Holzer I, Aschauer J, Selzer C, Brezina A, Helmy-Bader S, Ott J. The Prevalence of Fallopian Tube Occlusion in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Seems Similar to Non-Subfertile Women: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195610. [PMID: 36233477 PMCID: PMC9572298 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195610] [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: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are limited data on how non-infectious risk factors influence tubal patency in women with subfertility. With hormonal shifts influencing tubal secretions, it has been argued that subfertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have lower tubal patency. In a retrospective study, 216 women, who underwent diagnostic evaluation for PCOS and infertility, were included. Fallopian tube patency was tested using HSG, HyCoSy, and laparoscopic chromopertubation in 171 (79.2%), 28 (13.0%), and 17 (7.9%), respectively. Bilateral patency was found in 193 women (89.4%), unilateral patency in 13 (6.0%) and bilateral occlusion in 10 (4.6%) patients. Women with PCOS phenotypes C (odds ratio, OR 0.179, 95% CI: 0.039–0.828) and D (OR 0.256, 95% CI: 0.069–0.947) demonstrated lower risks for Fallopian tube occlusion. In conclusion, our data suggest that about 5% of infertile women with PCOS also have bilateral tubal occlusion, which seems similar to the rate in non-subfertile women. With 11% of participants having unilateral or bilateral tubal occlusion, this should reassure women with PCOS that their hormonal challenges do not seem to increase their risk for tubal factor subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Ghobrial
- Clinical Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - John Preston Parry
- Parryscope and Positive Steps Fertility, Madison, WI 39110, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Iris Holzer
- Clinical Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Judith Aschauer
- Clinical Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Clara Selzer
- Clinical Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Samir Helmy-Bader
- Clinical Division of General Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-1-40400-28130
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11
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Does Metformin improve reproduction outcomes for non-obese, infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome? Meta-analysis and systematic review. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 271:38-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Yland JJ, Chiu YH, Rinaudo P, Hsu J, Hernán MA, Hernández-Díaz S. Emulating a target trial of the comparative effectiveness of clomiphene citrate and letrozole for ovulation induction. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:793-805. [PMID: 35048945 PMCID: PMC8971650 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the comparative pregnancy outcomes in women who receive up to six consecutive cycles of ovulation induction with letrozole versus clomiphene citrate? SUMMARY ANSWER The risks of pregnancy, livebirth, multiple gestation, preterm birth, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and congenital malformations were higher for letrozole compared with clomiphene in participants with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), though no treatment differences were observed in those with unexplained infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Randomized trials have reported higher pregnancy and livebirth rates for letrozole versus clomiphene among individuals with PCOS, but no differences among those with unexplained infertility. None of these trials were designed to study maternal or neonatal complications. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We emulated a hypothetical trial of the comparative effectiveness of letrozole versus clomiphene citrate for ovulation induction among all women, then stratified by PCOS and unexplained infertility status. We used real-world data from a large healthcare claims database in the USA (2011-2015). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We analyzed data from 18 120 women who initiated letrozole and 49 647 women who initiated clomiphene during 2011-2014, and who were aged 18-45 years with no history of diabetes, thyroid disease, liver disease or breast cancer and had no fertility treatments for 3 months before trial initiation. The treatment strategies were clomiphene citrate or letrozole for six consecutive cycles. The outcomes were pregnancy, livebirth, multiple gestation, preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), NICU admission and major congenital malformations. We estimated the probability of each outcome under each strategy via pooled logistic regression and used standardization to adjust for confounding and selection bias due to loss to follow-up. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The estimated probabilities of pregnancy, livebirth and neonatal outcomes were similar under each strategy, both overall and among individuals with unexplained infertility. Among women with PCOS, the probability of pregnancy was 43% for letrozole vs 37% for clomiphene (risk difference [RD] = 6.0%; 95% CI: 4.4, 7.7) in the intention-to-treat analyses. The corresponding probability of livebirth was 32% vs 29% (RD = 3.1%; 95% CI: 1.5, 4.8). In per protocol analyses, the risk of multiple gestation was 19% vs 9%, the risk of preterm birth was 20% vs 15%, the risk of SGA was 5% vs 3%, the risk of NICU admission was 22% vs 16% and the risk of congenital malformation was 8% vs 2% among those with a livebirth. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We cannot completely rule out the possibility of residual confounding by body mass index or duration of infertility. However, we adjusted for proxies identified in administrative data and results did not change. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings suggest that for women with unexplained infertility, the two treatments result in comparable probabilities of a livebirth. For women with PCOS, letrozole appears slightly more effective for attaining a livebirth. Neonatal outcomes were similar for the two treatments among women with unexplained infertility; we did not confirm the hypothesized higher risk of adverse neonatal outcomes for clomiphene versus letrozole. The risks of adverse neonatal outcomes were slightly greater among women with PCOS who were treated with letrozole versus clomiphene. It is likely that these effects are partially mediated through an increased risk of multiple gestation among women who received letrozole. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (R01HD088393). Y.-H.C. reports grants from the American Heart Association (834106) and NIH (R01HD097778). P.R. reports grants from the National Institutes of Health. J.H. reports grants from the National Institutes of Health, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and the California Health Care Foundation during the conduct of the study; and consulting for several health care delivery organizations including Cambridge Health Alliance, Columbia University, University of Southern California, Community Servings, and the Delta Health Alliance. S.H.-D. reports grants from the National Institutes of Health and the US Food and Drug Administration during the conduct of the study; grants to her institution from Takeda outside the submitted work; consulting for UCB (biopharmaceutical company) and Roche; and being an adviser for the Antipsychotics Pregnancy Registry and epidemiologist for the North American Antiepileptics Pregnancy Registry, both at Massachusetts General Hospital. M.A.H. reports grants from the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Veterans Administration during the conduct of the study; being a consultant for Cytel; and being an adviser for ProPublica. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Yland
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Correspondence address. Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7870-8971
| | - Yu-Han Chiu
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,CAUSALab, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paolo Rinaudo
- Center for Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John Hsu
- Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Miguel A Hernán
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,CAUSALab, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sonia Hernández-Díaz
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,CAUSALab, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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13
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Lin W, Feng J, Zhou H, Chen X, Diao W, Ma P. Therapeutic efficacy of clomiphene citrate combined with metformin in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Clin Pharm Ther 2021; 47:321-329. [PMID: 34743357 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13561] [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: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE Although several clinical trials have compared the clinical efficacy of clomiphene citrate (CC) combined with metformin (MET) in the treatment of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the results are controversial. Therefore, this study was designed to conduct a pooled analysis to evaluate the efficacy of CC combined with MET versus CC in these patients. METHODS Computerized searches of the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were conducted to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the data obtained up to June 2021. The Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias in individual RCTs, and RevMan 5.4 was used for data statistical analysis. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION A total of 13 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. These studies involved 1,353 patients, 707 of these were in the combination group and 646 in the monotherapy group. The results indicated a higher clinical pregnancy rate (risk ratio [RR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06-1.54, p = 0.01) in the combined group compared to the monotherapy group. However, no significant differences were observed in the ovulation rate (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.98-1.30, p = 0.10), live birth rate (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.89-1.42, p = 0.32), multiple pregnancy rate (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.19-1.73, p = 0.33) and abortion rate (RR 1.26, 95% CI 0.86-1.84, p = 0.23) between the two groups. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION CC combined with MET has an advantage in improving the clinical pregnancy rate compared to CC alone; however, there is no significant difference in the rate of ovulation. For better management of PCOS, a high-quality RCT is needed to demonstrate the safety of the combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxun Lin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jun Feng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Honggui Zhou
- The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xiaofen Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Wei Diao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Peng Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
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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: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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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15
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Yuan L, Wu H, Huang W, Bi Y, Qin A, Yang Y. The function of metformin in endometrial receptivity (ER) of patients with polycyclic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:89. [PMID: 34127011 PMCID: PMC8201680 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00772-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This meta-analysis summarizes evidence from studies using metformin (Met) to improve endometrial receptivity (ER) in women with PCOS. METHODS Following the PRISMA protocol, we conducted a comprehensive search of academic literature from various databases, including PubMed, EMbase and Cochrane libraries. Studies published in English before Jan 27, 2021, were recruited for primary screening. Data on endometrial thickness (EMT), endometrial artery resistance index (RI), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and miscarriage rate (MR) were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS Sixty-two eligible studies that included 6571 patients were evaluated in this meta-analysis. Primary indicators are EMT and endometrial aetery RI; secondary indicators include the clinical pregnancy rate and miscarriage rate. Metformin significantly increased EMT (SMD = 2.04, 95% CI (0.96,3.12),P = 0.0002) and reduced endometrial artery RI compared to the non-Met group (SMD = - 2.83, 95% CI: (- 5.06, - 0.59), P = 0.01). As expected, metformin also improved CPR and reduced MR in PCOS patients as a result, clinical pregnancy rate (risk ratio [RR] = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.11-1.43, P = 0.0003), and miscarriage rate (RR = 0.73, 95% CI:0.58-0.91, P = 0.006). CONCLUSION Metformin may improve endometrial receptivity (ER) in PCOS patients by increasing EMT and reducing endometrial artery RI. However, the level of most original studies was low, with small sample sizes. More large-scale, long-term RCTs with rigorous methodologies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifang Yuan
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Hongbo Wu
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Reproductive Medical Center, Qinzhou Women and Children Hospital, Qinzhou, China
| | - Weiyu Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yin Bi
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Aiping Qin
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yihua Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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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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17
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Sakar MN, Oglak SC. Letrozole is superior to clomiphene citrate in ovulation induction in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Pak J Med Sci 2020; 36:1460-1465. [PMID: 33235557 PMCID: PMC7674913 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.36.7.3345] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study was aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of ovulation induction (OI) by timed intercourse with letrozole (LTZ) and clomiphene citrate (CC). Methods: Three hundred and twenty-three patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who underwent OI with LTZ or CC between February 2017 and November 2018 were included in this retrospective study. The patients were divided into two groups as the CC group (n=148) and the LTZ group (n=175). Endometrial thickness, follicular development, ovulation, clinical pregnancy, abortion, and live birth rates of the groups were analyzed. Results: The mean endometrium thickness of the CC group was 7.1±1.7 mm, and the LTZ group was 8.6±1.8 mm (p<0.001). The ovulation rate per cycle was higher in the LTZ group (93.1%) in comparison with the CC group (83.8%) (p=0.013). Clinical pregnancy rates were 52% in the LTZ group, and 41.2% in the CC group (p=0.047). LTZ with 44% of live birth rate was superior to CC with a 33% live birth rate (p=0.029). Conclusions: LTZ is an effective OI agent in PCOS patients. LTZ is superior to CC in terms of pregnancy rates and live birth rates. As a result, we recommend that LTZ should be the first-line treatment agent in patients with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Nafi Sakar
- Mehmet Nafi Sakar, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial Diyarbakir Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Cemil Oglak
- Suleyman Cemil Oglak, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Health Sciences, Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey
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18
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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: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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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Bordewijk EM, Wang R, van Wely M, Costello MF, Norman RJ, Teede H, Gurrin LC, Mol BW, Li W. To share or not to share data: how valid are trials evaluating first-line ovulation induction for polycystic ovary syndrome? Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:929-941. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
In our recent individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis evaluating the effectiveness of first-line ovulation induction for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), IPD were only available from 20 studies of 53 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We noticed that the summary effect sizes of meta-analyses of RCTs without IPD sharing were different from those of RCTs with IPD sharing. Granting access to IPD for secondary analysis has implications for promoting fair and transparent conduct of RCTs. It is, however, still common for authors to choose to withhold IPD, limiting the impact of and confidence in the results of RCTs and systematic reviews based on aggregate data.
OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE
We performed a meta-epidemiologic study to elucidate if RCTs without IPD sharing have lower quality and more methodological issues than those with IPD sharing in an IPD meta-analysis evaluating first-line ovulation induction for PCOS.
SEARCH METHODS
We included RCTs identified for the IPD meta-analysis. We dichotomized RCTs according to whether they provided IPD (shared group) or not (non-shared group) in the IPD meta-analysis. We restricted RCTs to full-text published trials written in English.
We assessed and compared RCTs in the shared and non-shared groups on the following criteria: Risk of Bias (RoB 2.0), GRADE approach, adequacy of trial registration; description of statistical methods and reproducibility of univariable statistical analysis; excessive similarity or difference in baseline characteristics that is not compatible with chance; and other miscellaneous methodological issues.
OUTCOMES
In total, 45 trials (8697 women) were included in this study. IPD were available from 17 RCTs and 28 trials were categorized as the non-shared IPD group. Pooled risk rates obtained from the shared and non-shared groups were different. Overall low risk of bias was associated with 13/17 (76%) of shared RCTs versus 7/28 (25%) of non-shared RCTs. For RCTs that started recruitment after 1 July 2005, adequate trial registration was found in 3/9 (33%) of shared IPD RCTs versus 0/16 (0%) in non-shared RCTs. In total, 7/17 (41%) of shared RCTs and 19/28 (68%) of non-shared RCTs had issues with the statistical methods described. The median (range) of inconsistency rate per study, between reported and reproduced analyses for baseline variables, was 0% (0–92%) (6 RCTs applicable) in the shared group and 54% (0–100%) (13 RCTs applicable) in the non-shared group. The median (range) of inconsistency rate of univariable statistical results for the outcome(s) per study was 0% (0–63%) (14 RCTs applicable) in the shared group and 44% (0–100%) (24 RCTs applicable) in the non-shared group. The distributions of simulation-generated P-values from comparisons of baseline continuous variables between intervention and control arms suggested that RCTs in the shared group are likely to be consistent with properly conducted randomization (P = 0.163), whereas this was not the case for the RCTs in the non-shared group (P = 4.535 × 10−8).
WIDER IMPLICATIONS
IPD meta-analysis on evaluating first-line ovulation induction for PCOS preserves validity and generates more accurate estimates of risk than meta-analyses using aggregate data, which enables more transparent assessments of benefits and risks. The availability of IPD and the willingness to share these data may be a good indicator of quality, methodological soundness and integrity of RCTs when they are being considered for inclusion in systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmee M Bordewijk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael F Costello
- School of Women's and Children's Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robert J Norman
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Fertility SA, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Helena Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Lyle C Gurrin
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Ben W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Wentao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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20
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Sharpe A, Morley LC, Tang T, Norman RJ, Balen AH. Metformin for ovulation induction (excluding gonadotrophins) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 12:CD013505. [PMID: 31845767 PMCID: PMC6915832 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterised by infrequent or absent ovulation, and high levels of androgens and insulin (hyperinsulinaemia). Hyperinsulinaemia occurs secondary to insulin resistance and is associated with an increased biochemical risk profile for cardiovascular disease and an increased prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Insulin-sensitising agents such as metformin may be effective in treating PCOS-related anovulation. This is an update of Morley 2017 and only includes studies on metformin. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of metformin in combination with or in comparison to clomiphene citrate (CC), letrozole and laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) in improving reproductive outcomes and associated gastrointestinal side effects for women with PCOS undergoing ovulation induction. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases from inception to December 2018: Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL. We searched registers of ongoing trials and reference lists from relevant studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of metformin compared with placebo, no treatment, or in combination with or compared with CC, letrozole and LOD for women with PCOS subfertility. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed studies for eligibility and bias. Primary outcomes were live birth rate and gastrointestinal adverse effects. Secondary outcomes included other pregnancy outcomes and ovulation. We combined data to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We assessed statistical heterogeneity using the I2 statistic and reported quality of the evidence for primary outcomes and reproductive outcomes using GRADE methodology. MAIN RESULTS We included 41 studies (4552 women). Evidence quality ranged from very low to moderate based on GRADE assessment. Limitations were risk of bias (poor reporting of methodology and incomplete outcome data), imprecision and inconsistency. Metformin versus placebo or no treatment The evidence suggests that metformin may improve live birth rates compared with placebo (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.51; I2 = 0%; 4 studies, 435 women; low-quality evidence). For a live birth rate of 19% following placebo, the live birth rate following metformin would be between 19% and 37%. The metformin group probably experiences more gastrointestinal side effects (OR 4.00, 95% CI 2.63 to 6.09; I2 = 39%; 7 studies, 713 women; moderate-quality evidence). With placebo, the risk of gastrointestinal side effects is 10% whereas with metformin this risk is between 22% and 40%. There are probably higher rates of clinical pregnancy (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.47 to 2.65; I2 = 30%; 11 studies, 1213 women; moderate-quality evidence). There may be higher rates of ovulation with metformin (OR 2.64, 95% CI 1.85 to 3.75; I2 = 61%; 13 studies, 684 women; low-quality evidence). We are uncertain about the effect on miscarriage rates (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.50 to 2.35; I2 = 0%; 4 studies, 748 women; low-quality evidence). Metformin plus CC versus CC alone We are uncertain if metformin plus CC improves live birth rates compared to CC alone (OR 1.27, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.65; I2 = 28%; 10 studies, 1219 women; low-quality evidence), but gastrointestinal side effects are probably more common with combined therapy (OR 4.26, 95% CI 2.83 to 6.40; I2 = 8%; 6 studies, 852 women; moderate quality evidence). The live birth rate with CC alone is 24%, which may change to between 23% to 34% with combined therapy. With CC alone, the risk of gastrointestinal side effects is 9%, which increases to between 21% to 37% with combined therapy. The combined therapy group probably has higher rates of clinical pregnancy (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.32 to 1.99; I2 = 31%; 19 studies, 1790 women; moderate-quality evidence). The combined group may have higher rates of ovulation (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.35 to 2.03; I2 = 63%;21 studies, 1568 women; low-quality evidence). There was no clear evidence of an effect on miscarriage (OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.91 to 2.00; I2 = 0%; 10 studies, 1206 women; low-quality evidence). Metformin versus CC When all studies were combined, findings for live birth were inconclusive and inconsistent (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.01; I2 = 86%; 5 studies, 741 women; very low-quality evidence). In subgroup analysis by obesity status, obese women had a lower birth rate in the metformin group (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.52; 2 studies, 500 women), while the non-obese group showed a possible benefit from metformin, with high heterogeneity (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.94; I2 = 78%, 3 studies, 241 women; very low-quality evidence). However, due to the very low quality of the evidence we cannot draw any conclusions. Among obese women taking metformin there may be lower rates of clinical pregnancy (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.55; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 500 women; low-quality evidence) and ovulation (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.43; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 500 women; low-quality evidence) while among non-obese women, the metformin group may have more pregnancies (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.29; I2 = 26%; 6 studies, 530 women; low-quality evidence) and no clear difference in ovulation rates (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.25; I2 = 0%; 5 studies, 352 women; low-quality evidence). We are uncertain whether there is a difference in miscarriage rates between the groups (overall: OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.51 to 1.66; I2 = 36%; 6 studies, 781 women; low-quality evidence) and no studies reported gastrointestinal side effects. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Our updated review suggests that metformin may be beneficial over placebo for live birth however, more women probably experience gastrointestinal side effects. We are uncertain if metformin plus CC improves live birth rates compared to CC alone, but gastrointestinal side effects are probably increased with combined therapy. When metformin was compared with CC, data for live birth were inconclusive, and the findings were limited by lack of evidence. Results differed by body mass index (BMI), emphasising the importance of stratifying results by BMI. No studies reported gastrointestinal side effects in this comparison. Due to the low quality of the evidence, we are uncertain of the effect of metformin on miscarriage in all three comparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lara C Morley
- The General Infirmary of LeedsDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUnited Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS TrustBelmont GroveLeedsUKLS2 9NS
| | - Thomas Tang
- Royal Jubilee Maternity ServiceRegional Fertility CentreGrosvenor RoadBelfastUKBT12 6BA
| | - Robert J Norman
- University of AdelaideObstetrics & Gynaecology, Robinson InstituteAdelaide South Australia 5005AdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- University of AdelaideReproductive Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyLevel 6, Medical School North Frome RoadAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia5005
- Fertility SAAdelaideAustralia
| | - Adam H Balen
- The Leeds Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Seacroft HospitalReproductive Medicine and SurgeryYork RoadLeedsUKLS14 6UH
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Tshzmachyan R, Hambartsoumian E. The role of Letrozole (LE) in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in patients at high risk to develop ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS). A prospective randomized controlled pilot study. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2019; 49:101643. [PMID: 31563697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2019.101643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, it has been shown that PCOS patients with extremely high anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level are more likely to experience OHSS during IVF, compared to PCOS patients with lower AMH level. While recent data questioned the effect of Letrozole (LE) on the occurrence of OHSS in non-PCOS patients, it role in PCOS patients with very high AMH level was never investigated in a prospective manners. Hence, our main objective was to evaluate the clinical outcome of PCOS patients at very high risk for OHSS undergoing two different COS protocols (with or without LE). METHODS A prospective randomized controlled study (RCT) of 51 patients with specifically high levels of AMH undergoing one of two COS protocols. The control group (group A) consisted of 24 PCOS women who received low-dose gonadotropins using the multiple-dose GnRH-antagonist protocol, GnRH agonist-triggered and "freeze all". The study group (group B) consisted of 24 women with PCOS who received the same protocol combined with LE. High risk criteria for OHSS were: PCOS patients with low BMI, young age, and extremely high level of serum AMH (inclusion criteria for AMH > 50 pmol/L). RESULTS Cumulative live birth rates per retrieval were similar in both groups. While no single case of severe OHSS was observed in, in the study group (group B), the rate of moderate and mild OHSS was 5 times lower compared to the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION In PCOS patients with extremely high AMH levels the LE co-administration to GnRH-Ant protocols results in reduced incidence of OHSS than conventional GnRH-Ant protocols. LE co-administration may prove to be highly effective in preventing OHSS, even in the women who are at high risk to these dangerous complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruzanna Tshzmachyan
- Fertility Center, Yerevan State Medical University, 41/7 Moldovakan street, Nor Nork, 0062, Yerevan, Armenia.
| | - Eduard Hambartsoumian
- Fertility Center, Yerevan State Medical University, 41/7 Moldovakan street, Nor Nork, 0062, Yerevan, Armenia.
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22
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Franik S, Eltrop SM, Kremer JAM, Kiesel L, Farquhar C. Aromatase inhibitors (letrozole) for subfertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 5:CD010287. [PMID: 29797697 PMCID: PMC6494577 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010287.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [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 4% to 8% of women worldwide and often leads to anovulatory subfertility. 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). OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of aromatase inhibitors for subfertile women with anovulatory PCOS for ovulation induction followed by timed intercourse or intrauterine insemination (IUI). SEARCH METHODS We searched the following sources from inception to November 2017 to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs): the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Pubmed, LILACS, Web of Knowledge, the World Health Organization (WHO) clinical trials register and Clinicaltrials.gov. We also searched the references of relevant articles. 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. We pooled studies 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 and OHSS. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, miscarriage and multiple pregnancy. We assessed the quality of the evidence for each comparison using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS This is a substantive update of a previous review. We identified 16 additional studies for the 2018 update. We include 42 RCTs (7935 women). The aromatase inhibitor letrozole was used in all studies.Letrozole compared to clomiphene citrate (CC) with or without adjuncts followed by timed intercourseLive birth rates were higher with letrozole (with or without adjuncts) compared to clomiphene citrate (with our without adjuncts) followed by timed intercourse (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.42 to 1.99; 2954 participants; 13 studies; I2 = 0%; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) = 10; moderate-quality evidence). There is high-quality evidence that OHSS rates are similar with letrozole or clomiphene citrate (0.5% in both arms: risk difference (RD) -0.00, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.00; 2536 participants; 12 studies; I2 = 0%; high-quality evidence). There is evidence for a higher pregnancy rate in favour of letrozole (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.37 to 1.78; 4629 participants; 25 studies; I2 = 1%; NNTB = 10; moderate-quality evidence). There is little or no difference between treatment groups in the rate of miscarriage by pregnancy (20% with CC versus 19% with letrozole; OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.26; 1210 participants; 18 studies; I2 = 0%; high-quality evidence) and multiple pregnancy rate (1.7% with CC versus 1.3% with letrozole; OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.41 to 1.16; 3579 participants; 17 studies; I2 = 0%; high-quality evidence). However, a funnel plot showed mild asymmetry, indicating that some studies in favour of clomiphene might be missing.Letrozole compared to laparoscopic ovarian drillingThere is low-quality evidence that live birth rates are similar with letrozole or laparoscopic ovarian drilling (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.95 to 2.02; 548 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 23%; low-quality evidence). There is insufficient evidence for a difference in OHSS rates (RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.01; 260 participants; 1 study; low-quality evidence). There is low-quality evidence that pregnancy rates are similar (OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.74; 774 participants; 5 studies; I2 = 0%; moderate-quality evidence). There is insufficient evidence for a difference in miscarriage rate by pregnancy (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.30 to 1.43; 240 participants; 5 studies; I2 = 0%; moderate-quality evidence), or multiple pregnancies (OR 3.00, 95% CI 0.12 to 74.90; 548 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 0%; low-quality evidence).Additional comparisons were made for Letrozole versus placebo, Selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMS) followed by intrauterine insemination (IUI), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Anastrozole, as well as dosage and administration protocols. There is insufficient evidence for a difference in either group of treatment due to a limited number of studies. Hence more research is necessary. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Letrozole appears to improve live birth and pregnancy rates in subfertile women with anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome, compared to clomiphene citrate. There is high-quality evidence that OHSS rates are similar with letrozole or clomiphene citrate. There is high-quality evidence of no difference in miscarriage rates or multiple pregnancy rates. There is low-quality evidence of no difference in live birth and pregnancy rates between letrozole and laparoscopic ovarian drilling, although there were few relevant studies. For the 2018 update, we added good-quality trials, upgrading the quality of the evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Franik
- University Hospital MünsterDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAlbert‐Schweitzer‐Campus 1MünsterGermany48149
| | - Stephanie M Eltrop
- University Hospital MünsterDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAlbert‐Schweitzer‐Campus 1MünsterGermany48149
| | - Jan AM Kremer
- Radboud University Nijmegen Medical CenterDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyPO Box 9101NijmegenNetherlands6500 HB
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- University Hospital MünsterDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAlbert‐Schweitzer‐Campus 1MünsterGermany48149
| | - Cindy Farquhar
- University of AucklandDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyFMHS Park RoadGraftonAucklandNew Zealand1003
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Letrozole versus clomiphene citrate in polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2018; 297:1081-1088. [PMID: 29392438 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4688-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disturbance affecting women in the reproductive age group. The present study aimed to compare the effects of letrozole (LE) and clomiphene citrate (CC) for ovulation induction in women with PCOS. METHODS The PUBMED, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were screened systematically for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from database inception to July 2017. RESULTS Eleven RCTs involving 2255 patients were included, and data were independently extracted and analyzed using 95% risk ratios (RRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) based on a random- or fixed-effect model (as appropriate). Meta-analyses of nine RCTs comparing LE and CC ovulation induction, followed by timed intercourse, indicated that the former significantly increased the ovulation rate (RR = 1.18; 95% CI 1.03-1.36, P = 0.01), pregnancy rate (RR = 1.34; 95% CI 1.09-1.64, P = 0.006), and live birth rate (RR = 1.55; 95% CI 1.28-1.88, P < 0.00001). However, LE and CC did not differ significantly in terms of the multiple pregnancy and abortion rates. Furthermore, LE for ovulation induction significantly improved the pregnancy rate after IUI. CONCLUSION LE is superior to CC for ovulation induction in patients with PCOS.
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