Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
Meta-Analysis
. 2015 Apr 28;2015(4):CD010334.
doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD010334.pub2.

Interventions for hirsutism (excluding laser and photoepilation therapy alone)

Esther J van Zuuren  1 , Zbys Fedorowicz, Ben Carter, Nikolaos Pandis
Affiliations
Meta-Analysis

Interventions for hirsutism (excluding laser and photoepilation therapy alone)

Esther J van Zuuren et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. .

Abstract

Background: Hirsutism occurs in 5% to 10% of women of reproductive age when there is excessive terminal hair growth in androgen-sensitive areas (male pattern). It is a distressing disorder with a major impact on quality of life. The most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome. There are many treatment options, but it is not clear which are most effective.

Objectives: To assess the effects of interventions (except laser and light-based therapies alone) for hirsutism.

Search methods: We searched the Cochrane Skin Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL (2014, Issue 6), MEDLINE (from 1946), EMBASE (from 1974), and five trials registers, and checked reference lists of included studies for additional trials. The last search was in June 2014.

Selection criteria: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in hirsute women with polycystic ovary syndrome, idiopathic hirsutism, or idiopathic hyperandrogenism.

Data collection and analysis: Two independent authors carried out study selection, data extraction, 'Risk of bias' assessment, and analyses.

Main results: We included 157 studies (sample size 30 to 80) comprising 10,550 women (mean age 25 years). The majority of studies (123/157) were 'high', 30 'unclear', and four 'low' risk of bias. Lack of blinding was the most frequent source of bias. Treatment duration was six to 12 months. Forty-eight studies provided no usable or retrievable data, i.e. lack of separate data for hirsute women, conference proceedings, and losses to follow-up above 40%.Primary outcomes, 'participant-reported improvement of hirsutism' and 'change in health-related quality of life', were addressed in few studies, and adverse events in only half. In most comparisons there was insufficient evidence to determine if the number of reported adverse events differed. These included known adverse events: gastrointestinal discomfort, breast tenderness, reduced libido, dry skin (flutamide and finasteride); irregular bleeding (spironolactone); nausea, diarrhoea, bloating (metformin); hot flushes, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, headaches (gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues)).Clinician's evaluation of hirsutism and change in androgen levels were addressed in most comparisons, change in body mass index (BMI) and improvement of other clinical signs of hyperandrogenism in one-third of studies.The quality of evidence was moderate to very low for most outcomes.There was low quality evidence for the effect of two oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) (ethinyl estradiol + cyproterone acetate versus ethinyl estradiol + desogestrel) on change from baseline of Ferriman-Gallwey scores. The mean difference (MD) was -1.84 (95% confidence interval (CI) -3.86 to 0.18).There was very low quality evidence that flutamide 250 mg, twice daily, reduced Ferriman-Gallwey scores more effectively than placebo (MD -7.60, 95% CI -10.53 to -4.67 and MD -7.20, 95% CI -10.15 to -4.25). Participants' evaluations in one study with 20 participants confirmed these results (risk ratio (RR) 17.00, 95% CI 1.11 to 259.87).Spironolactone 100 mg daily was more effective than placebo in reducing Ferriman-Gallwey scores (MD -7.69, 95% CI -10.12 to -5.26) (low quality evidence). It showed similar effectiveness to flutamide in two studies (MD -1.90, 95% CI -5.01 to 1.21 and MD 0.49, 95% CI -1.99 to 2.97) (very low quality evidence), as well as to finasteride in two studies (MD 1.49, 95% CI -0.58 to 3.56 and MD 0.40, 95% CI -1.18 to 1.98) (low quality evidence).Although there was very low quality evidence of a difference in reduction of Ferriman-Gallwey scores for finasteride 5 mg to 7.5 mg daily versus placebo (MD -5.73, 95% CI -6.87 to -4.58), it was unlikely it was clinically meaningful. These results were reinforced by participants' assessments (RR 2.06, 95% CI 0.99 to 4.29 and RR 11.00, 95% CI 0.69 to 175.86). However, finasteride showed inconsistent results in comparisons with other treatments, and no firm conclusions could be reached.Metformin demonstrated no benefit over placebo in reduction of Ferriman-Gallwey scores (MD 0.05, 95% CI -1.02 to 1.12), but the quality of evidence was low. Results regarding the effectiveness of GnRH analogues were inconsistent, varying from minimal to important improvements.We were unable to pool data for OCPs with cyproterone acetate 20 mg to 100 mg due to clinical and methodological heterogeneity between studies. However, addition of cyproterone acetate to OCPs provided greater reductions in Ferriman-Gallwey scores.Two studies, comparing finasteride 5 mg and spironolactone 100 mg, did not show differences in participant assessments and reduction of Ferriman-Gallwey scores (low quality evidence). Ferriman-Gallwey scores from three studies comparing flutamide versus metformin could not be pooled (I² = 62%). One study comparing flutamide 250 mg twice daily with metformin 850 mg twice daily for 12 months, which reached a higher cumulative dosage than two other studies evaluating this comparison, showed flutamide to be more effective (MD -6.30, 95% CI -9.83 to -2.77) (very low quality evidence). Data showing reductions in Ferriman-Gallwey scores could not be pooled for four studies comparing finasteride with flutamide as the results were inconsistent (I² = 67%).Studies examining effects of hypocaloric diets reported reductions in BMI, but which did not result in reductions in Ferriman-Gallwey scores. Although certain cosmetic measures are commonly used, we did not identify any relevant RCTs.

Authors' conclusions: Treatments may need to incorporate pharmacological therapies, cosmetic procedures, and psychological support. For mild hirsutism there is evidence of limited quality that OCPs are effective. Flutamide 250 mg twice daily and spironolactone 100 mg daily appeared to be effective and safe, albeit the evidence was low to very low quality. Finasteride 5 mg daily showed inconsistent results in different comparisons, therefore no firm conclusions can be made. As the side effects of antiandrogens and finasteride are well known, these should be accounted for in any clinical decision-making. There was low quality evidence that metformin was ineffective for hirsutism and although GnRH analogues showed inconsistent results in reducing hirsutism they do have significant side effects.Further research should consist of well-designed, rigorously reported, head-to-head trials examining OCPs combined with antiandrogens or 5α-reductase inhibitor against OCP monotherapy, as well as the different antiandrogens and 5α-reductase inhibitors against each other. Outcomes should be based on standardised scales of participants' assessment of treatment efficacy, with a greater emphasis on change in quality of life as a result of treatment.

PubMed Disclaimer

Conflict of interest statement

There are no financial conflicts of interest; the authors, Esther van Zuuren, Zbys Fedorowicz, Ben Carter and Nik Pandis declare that they do not have any associations with any parties who may have vested interests in the results of this review.

Figures

1
1
Hirsutism on the chin
2
2
Hirsutism on the chest and breasts
3
3
Modified Ferriman‐Gallwey score, each of nine body areas can receive a score from 0 (no hair) to 4 (frankly virile) (van Zuuren EJ, Pijl H. Hirsutism. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2007 Oct 20;151(42):2313‐8
4
4
Study flow diagram.
5
5
'Risk of bias' graph: review authors' judgements about each risk of bias item presented as percentages across all included studies.
6
6
'Risk of bias' summary: review authors' judgements about each risk of bias item for each included study.
4.1
4.1. Analysis
Comparison 4 Ethinyl estradiol 35 μg + cyproterone acetate 2 mg versus ethinyl estradiol 30 μg + desogestrel 0.15 mg, Outcome 1 Mean change from baseline in Ferriman‐Gallwey score.
4.2
4.2. Analysis
Comparison 4 Ethinyl estradiol 35 μg + cyproterone acetate 2 mg versus ethinyl estradiol 30 μg + desogestrel 0.15 mg, Outcome 2 Mean change from baseline in Lorenzo score.
20.1
20.1. Analysis
Comparison 20 Finasteride 5 mg to 7.5 mg/day versus placebo, Outcome 1 Adverse events.
20.2
20.2. Analysis
Comparison 20 Finasteride 5 mg to 7.5 mg/day versus placebo, Outcome 2 Mean change from baseline in Ferriman‐Gallwey score.
27.1
27.1. Analysis
Comparison 27 Metformin 500 mg to 1500 mg per day versus placebo for 12 to 48 weeks, Outcome 1 Mean change from baseline in Ferriman‐Gallwey score.
27.3
27.3. Analysis
Comparison 27 Metformin 500 mg to 1500 mg per day versus placebo for 12 to 48 weeks, Outcome 3 Mean change from baseline in BMI.
91.1
91.1. Analysis
Comparison 91 Flutamide 250 mg once to b.i.d. versus metformin 1275 mg to 1700 mg per day, Outcome 1 Mean change from baseline in Ferriman‐Gallwey score.
92.1
92.1. Analysis
Comparison 92 Finasteride 5 mg once a day versus flutamide 250 mg once to b.i.d., Outcome 1 Number of adverse events.
92.2
92.2. Analysis
Comparison 92 Finasteride 5 mg once a day versus flutamide 250 mg once to b.i.d., Outcome 2 Mean change from baseline in Ferriman‐Gallwey score.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment in

  • Interventions for Hirsutism.
    van Zuuren EJ, Fedorowicz Z. van Zuuren EJ, et al. JAMA. 2015 Nov 3;314(17):1863-4. doi: 10.1001/jama.2015.11743. JAMA. 2015. PMID: 26529164

References

References to studies included in this review

Ahmad 2008 {published data only}
    1. Ahmad J, Shukla N, Khan AR, Ahmed F, Siddiqui MA. Comparison of metabolic effects of metformin and rosiglitazone in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a prospective, parallel, randomized, open‐label study. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews 2008;2(1):37‐46. [EMBASE: 2008061564]
Aigner 2009 {published data only}
    1. Aigner E, Bachofner N, Klein K, Geyter C, Hohla F, Patsch W, et al. Retinol‐binding protein 4 in polycystic ovary syndrome‐association with steroid hormones and response to pioglitazone treatment. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism 2009;94(4):1229‐35. [PUBMED: 19158194] - PubMed
Akalin 1991 {published data only}
    1. Akalin S. Effects of ketoconazole in hirsute women. Acta Endocrinologica 1991;124(1):19‐22. [PUBMED: 1825737] - PubMed
Al‐Khawajah 1998 {published data only}
    1. Al‐Khawajah MM. Finasteride for hirsutism: a dose finding study. Saudi Medical Journal 1998;19(1):19‐21. [EMBASE: 1998139572] - PubMed
Allen 2005 {published data only}
    1. Allen HF, Mazzoni C, Heptulla RA, Murray MA, Miller N, Koenigs L, et al. Randomized controlled trial evaluating response to metformin versus standard therapy in the treatment of adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism 2005;18(8):761‐8. [PUBMED: 16200842] - PubMed
Ashrafinia 2009 {published data only}
    1. Ashrafinia M, Hosseini R, Moini A, Eslami B, Asgari Z. Comparison of metformin treatment and laparoscopic ovarian diathermy in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. International Journal of Gynaecology & Obstetrics 2009;107(3):236‐9. [PUBMED: 19729161] - PubMed
Azziz 1995 {published data only}
    1. Azziz R, Ochoa TM, Bradley EL Jr, Potter HD, Boots LR. Leuprolide and estrogen versus oral contraceptive pills for the treatment of hirsutism: a prospective randomized study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1995;80(12):3406‐11. [PUBMED: 8530573] - PubMed
Azziz 2001 {published data only}
    1. Azziz R, Ehrmann D, Legro RS, Whitcomb RW, Hanley R, Fereshetian AG, et al. Troglitazone improves ovulation and hirsutism in the polycystic ovary syndrome: a multicenter, double blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2001;86(4):1626‐32. [PUBMED: 11297595] - PubMed
Badawy 2009b {published data only}
    1. Badawy A, Khiary M, Ragab A, Hassan M, Sherief L. Ultrasound‐guided transvaginal ovarian needle drilling (UTND) for treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Fertility & Sterility 2009;91(4):1164‐7. [PUBMED: 18342858] - PubMed
    1. Badawy A, Khiary M, Ragab A, Sherif L. Ultrasound‐guided transvaginal ovarian needle drilling (UTND) for treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Conference: 25th Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, ESHRE Amsterdam Netherlands. Molecular Human Reproduction 2009;24(Suppl 1):i179. [EMBASE: 70197442]
Banaszewska 2007 {published data only}
    1. Banaszewska B, Pawelczyk L, Spaczynski RZ, Dziura J, Duleba AJ. Effects of simvastatin and oral contraceptive agent on polycystic ovary syndrome: prospective, randomized, crossover trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2007;92(2):456‐61. [PUBMED: 17105841] - PubMed
    1. Duleba AJ, Banaszewska B, Spaczynski RZ, Pawelczyk L. Simvastatin improves biochemical parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: results of a prospective, randomized trial. Fertility & Sterility 2006;85(4):996‐1001. [PUBMED: 16580386] - PubMed
Banaszewska 2011 {published data only}
    1. Banaszewska B, Pawelczyk L, Spaczynski RZ, Duleba AJ. Comparison of simvastatin and metformin in treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: prospective randomized trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2009;94(12):4938‐45. [PUBMED: 19890022] - PMC - PubMed
    1. Banaszewska B, Pawelczyk L, Spaczynski RZ, Duleba AJ. Effects of simvastatin and metformin on polycystic ovary syndrome after six months of treatment. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2011;96(11):3493‐501. [PUBMED: 21865358] - PMC - PubMed
Barth 1991 {published data only}
    1. Barth JH, Cherry CA, Wojnarowska F, Dawber RP. Cyproterone acetate for severe hirsutism: results of a double‐blind dose‐ranging study. Clinical Endocrinology 1991;35(1):5‐10. [PUBMED: 1832346] - PubMed
Battaglia 2010 {published data only}
    1. Battaglia C, Mancini F, Fabbri R, Persico N, Busacchi P, Facchinetti F, et al. Polycystic ovary syndrome and cardiovascular risk in young patients treated with drospirenone‐ethinylestradiol or contraceptive vaginal ring. A prospective, randomized, pilot study. Fertility & Sterility 2010;94(4):1417‐25. [PUBMED: 19591981] - PubMed
Batukan 2007 {published data only}
    1. Batukan C, Muderris II, Ozcelik B, Ozturk A. Comparison of two oral contraceptives containing either drospirenone or cyproterone acetate in the treatment of hirsutism. Gynecological Endocrinology 2007;23(1):38‐44. [PUBMED: 17484511] - PubMed
Bayhan 2000 {published data only}
    1. Bayhan G, Bahçeci M, Demirkol T, Ertem M, Yalinkaya A, Erden AC. A comparative study of a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist and finasteride on idiopathic hirsutism. Clinical & Experimental Obstetrics & Gynecology 2000;27(3‐4):203‐6. [PUBMED: 11214952] - PubMed
Bayram 2002 {published data only}
    1. Bayram F, Müderris II, Güven M, Keleştimur F. Comparison of high‐dose finasteride (5 mg/day) versus low‐dose finasteride (2.5 mg/day) in the treatment of hirsutism. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2002;147(4):467‐71. [PUBMED: 12370107] - PubMed
Beigi 2004 {published data only}
    1. Beigi A, Sobhi A, Zarrinkoub F. Finasteride versus cyproterone acetate‐estrogen regimens in the treatment of hirsutism. International Journal of Gynaecology & Obstetrics 2004;87(1):29‐33. [PUBMED: 15464773] - PubMed
Belisle 1986 {published data only}
    1. Belisle S. Cyproterone acetate in severe hirsutism: results of an ongoing multicentered study by the Canadian Committee for Fertility Research. Archives of Gynecology 1985;237(1 Suppl):199.
    1. Belisle S, Love EJ. Clinical efficacy and safety of cyproterone acetate in severe hirsutism: results of a multicentered Canadian study. Fertility & Sterility 1986;46(6):1015‐20. [PUBMED: 2946604] - PubMed
Bhattacharya 2012 {published data only}
    1. Bhattacharya SM, Jha A. Comparative study of the therapeutic effects of oral contraceptive pills containing desogestrel, cyproterone acetate, and drospirenone in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2012;98(4):1053‐9. [PUBMED: 22795636] - PubMed
Breitkopf 2003 {published data only}
    1. Breitkopf DM, Rosen MP, Young SL, Nagamani M. Efficacy of second versus third generation oral contraceptives in the treatment of hirsutism. Contraception 2003;67(5):349‐53. [PUBMED: 12742556] - PubMed
Brettenthaler 2004 {published data only}
    1. Brettenthaler N, Geyter C, Huber PR, Keller U. Effect of the insulin sensitizer pioglitazone on insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and ovulatory dysfunction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2004;89(8):3835‐40. [PUBMED: 15292314] - PubMed
Brown 2009B {published data only}
    1. Brown AJ, Setji TL, Sanders LL, Lowry KP, Otvos JD, Kraus WE, et al. Effects of exercise on lipoprotein particles in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise 2009;41(3):497‐504. [PUBMED: 19204602] - PMC - PubMed
Calaf 2007 {published data only}
    1. Calaf J, López E, Millet A, Alcañiz J, Fortuny A, Vidal O, et al. Long‐term efficacy and tolerability of flutamide combined with oral contraception in moderate to severe hirsutism: a 12‐month, double‐blind, parallel clinical trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2007;92(9):3446‐52. [PUBMED: 17566093] - PubMed
Carmina 1994 {published data only}
    1. Carmina E, Janni A, Lobo RA. Physiological estrogen replacement may enhance the effectiveness of the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1994;78(1):126‐30. [PUBMED: 8288696] - PubMed
Carmina 1998 {published data only}
    1. Carmina E, Lobo RA. The addition of dexamethasone to antiandrogen therapy for hirsutism prolongs the duration of remission. Fertility & Sterility 1998;69(6):1075‐9. [PUBMED: 9627295] - PubMed
Carr 1995 {published data only}
    1. Carr BR, Breslau NA, Givens C, Byrd W, Barnett‐Hamm C, Marshburn PB. Oral contraceptive pills, gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonists, or use in combination for treatment of hirsutism: a clinical research center study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1995;80(4):1169‐78. [PUBMED: 7714086] - PubMed
Cedeno 1990 {published data only}
    1. Cedeno J, Mendoza SG, Velazquez E, Nucete H, Speirs J, Glueck CJ. Effect of ketoconazole on plasma sex hormones, lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins in hyperandrogenic women. Metabolism: Clinical & Experimental 1990;39(5):511‐7. [PUBMED: 2139916] - PubMed
Cibula 2005 {published data only}
    1. Cibula D, Fanta M, Vrbikova J, Stanicka S, Dvorakova K, Hill M, et al. The effect of combination therapy with metformin and combined oral contraceptives (COC) versus COC alone on insulin sensitivity, hyperandrogenaemia, SHBG and lipids in PCOS patients. Human Reproduction 2005;20(1):180‐4. [PUBMED: 15576394] - PubMed
Cicek 2003 {published data only}
    1. Ciçek MN, Bala A, Celik C, Akyürek C. The comparison of clinical and hormonal parameters in PCOS patients treated with metformin and GnRH analogue. Archives of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2003;268(2):107‐12. [PUBMED: 12768300] - PubMed
Ciotta 1995 {published data only}
    1. Ciotta L, Cianci A, Calogero AE, Palumbo MA, Marletta E, Sciuto A, et al. Clinical and endocrine effects of finasteride, a 5 alpha‐reductase inhibitor, in women with idiopathic hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1995;64(2):299‐306. [PUBMED: 7615107] - PubMed
Ciotta 2001 {published data only}
    1. Ciotta L, Calogero AE, Farina M, Leo V, Marca A, Cianci A. Clinical, endocrine and metabolic effects of acarbose, an alpha‐glucosidase inhibitor, in PCOS patients with increased insulin response and normal glucose tolerance. Human Reproduction 2001;16(10):2066‐72. [PUBMED: 11574493] - PubMed
Ciotta 2012 {published data only}
    1. Ciotta L, Formuso C, Pagano I, Stracquadanio M. Myo‐inositol vs D‐Chiro inositol in PCOS treatment. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2012;119(Suppl 3):S545. [EMBASE: 70906140]
Ciotta 2012B {published data only}
    1. Ciotta L, Stracquadanio M, Pagano I, Formuso C, Leo S, Cianci A. D‐Chiro‐Inositol treatment in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Giornale Italiano Di Ostetricia e Ginecologia 2012;34(1):145‐8. [EMBASE: 2012245049]
Consoli 1994 {published data only}
    1. Consoli SM, Vexiau P, Consoli SG, Abramovici Y. Acceptance, tolerance and effects on quality of life of treatment of hirsute women with cyproterone acetate. Comparison of association with oral estradiol to association with transdermal estradiol. Contraception, Fertilite, Sexualite 1994;22(12):783‐7. [EMBASE: 1995012638] - PubMed
Couzinet 1986 {published data only}
    1. Couzinet B, Strat N, Brailly S, Schaison G. Comparative effects of cyproterone acetate or a long‐acting gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist in polycystic ovarian disease. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1986;63(4):1031‐5. [PUBMED: 2943752] - PubMed
Crave 1995 {published data only}
    1. Crave JC, Fimbel S, Lejeune H, Cugnardey N, Déchaud H, Pugeat M. Effects of diet and metformin administration on sex hormone‐binding globulin, androgens, and insulin in hirsute and obese women. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1995;80(7):2057‐62. [PUBMED: 7608255] - PubMed
Creatsas 1993 {published data only}
    1. Creatsas G, Hassan E, Deligeoroglou E, Tolis G, Aravantinos D. Treatment of polycystic ovarian disease during adolescence with ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate versus a D‐Tr‐6‐LHRH analog. International Journal of Gynaecology & Obstetrics 1993;42(2):147‐53. [PUBMED: 7901064] - PubMed
Creatsas 2000 {published data only}
    1. Creatsas G, Koliopoulos C, Mastorakos G. Combined oral contraceptive treatment of adolescent girls with polycystic ovary syndrome. Lipid profile. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 2000;900:245‐52. [PUBMED: 10818412] - PubMed
Cusan 1994 {published data only}
    1. Cusan L, Dupont A, Gomez JL, Tremblay RR, Labrie F. Comparison of flutamide and spironolactone in the treatment of hirsutism: a randomized controlled trial. Fertility & Sterility 1994;61(2):281‐7. [PUBMED: 8299783] - PubMed
De Leo 2000 {published data only}
    1. Leo V, Fulghesu AM, Marca A, Morgante G, Pasqui L, Talluri B, et al. Hormonal and clinical effects of GnRH agonist alone, or in combination with a combined oral contraceptive or flutamide in women with severe hirsutism. Gynecological Endocrinology 2000;14(6):411‐6. [PUBMED: 11228061] - PubMed
Dereli 2005 {published data only}
    1. Dereli D, Dereli T, Bayraktar F, Ozgen AG, Yilmaz C. Endocrine and metabolic effects of rosiglitazone in non‐obese women with polycystic ovary disease. Endocrine Journal 2005;52(3):299‐308. [PUBMED: 16006724] - PubMed
Dixon 1991 {published data only}
    1. Dixon JE, Hicks BH, Chapman MG. Hirsutography: Photographic measurement of linear hair growth in hirsute women during comparison of anti‐androgen treatments. Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 1991;11(1):63‐7. [EMBASE: 1991099168]
Eisenhardt 2006 {published data only}
    1. Eisenhardt S, Schwarzmann N, Henschel V, Germeyer A, Wolff M, Hamann A, et al. Early effects of metformin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2006;91(3):946‐52. [PUBMED: 16352680] - PubMed
Elkind‐Hirsch 1995 {published data only}
    1. Elkind‐Hirsch KE, Anania C, Mack M, Malinak R. Combination gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist and oral contraceptive therapy improves treatment of hirsute women with ovarian hyperandrogenism. Fertility & Sterility 1995;63(5):970‐8. [PUBMED: 7720941] - PubMed
Elnashar 2006 {published data only}
    1. Elnashar A, Abdelmageed E, Fayed M, Sharaf M. Clomiphene citrate and dexamethazone in treatment of clomiphene citrate‐resistant polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective placebo‐controlled study. Human Reproduction 2006;21(7):1805‐8. [PUBMED: 16543255] - PubMed
Elter 2002 {published data only}
    1. Elter K, Imir G, Durmusoglu F. Clinical, endocrine and metabolic effects of metformin added to ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate in non‐obese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a randomized controlled study. Human Reproduction 2002;17(7):1729‐37. [PUBMED: 12093831] - PubMed
Erenus 1994 {published data only}
    1. Erenus M, Gürbüz O, Durmuşoğlu F, Demirçay Z, Pekin S. Comparison of the efficacy of spironolactone versus flutamide in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1994;61(4):613‐6. [PUBMED: 8150100] - PubMed
Erenus 1996 {published data only}
    1. Erenus M, Yücelten D, Gürbüz O, Durmuşoğlu F, Pekin S. Comparison of spironolactone‐oral contraceptive versus cyproterone acetate‐estrogen regimens in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1996;66(2):216‐9. [PUBMED: 8690104] - PubMed
Erenus 1997 {published data only}
    1. Erenus M, Yücelten D, Durmuşoğlu F, Gürbüz O. Comparison of finasteride versus spironolactone in the treatment of idiopathic hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1997;68(6):1000‐3. [PUBMED: 9418687] - PubMed
Erkkola 1990 {published data only}
    1. Erkkola R, Hirvonen E, Luikku J, Lumme R, Männikkö H, Aydinlik S. Ovulation inhibitors containing cyproterone acetate or desogestrel in the treatment of hyperandrogenic symptoms. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 1990;69(1):61‐5. [PUBMED: 2140663] - PubMed
Esmaeilzadeh 2010 {published data only}
    1. Esmaeilzadeh S, Ghorbani L, Sharbatdaran M, Bijani A, Sajadi P. Comparison of flutamide and metformin in overweight‐obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome following a hypocaloric dieting. Journal of Babol University of Medical Sciences 2010;12(4):7‐13. [EMBASE: 2011042010]
Falsetti 1992 {published data only}
    1. Falsetti L, Pasinetti E, Chioda C, Grigolato PG. Treatment of moderate and severe hirsutism with a gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone agonist. Human Reproduction 1992;7(6):894. [EMBASE: 1992237168] - PubMed
Falsetti 1994 {published data only}
    1. Falsetti L, Pasinetti E. Treatment of moderate and severe hirsutism by gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonists in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and idiopathic hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1994;61(5):817‐22. [PUBMED: 8174716] - PubMed
Falsetti 1994B {published data only}
    1. Falsetti L, Pasinetti E, Ceruti D. Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist (GnRH‐A) in hirsutism. Acta Europaea Fertilitatis 1994;25(5):303‐6. [PUBMED: 7660719] - PubMed
Falsetti 1999 {published data only}
    1. Falsetti L, Gambera A. Comparison of finasteride and flutamide in the treatment of idiopathic hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1999;72(1):41‐6. [PUBMED: 10428146] - PubMed
    1. Falsetti L, Gambera A, Legrenzi L, Iacobello C, Bugari G. Comparison of finasteride versus flutamide in the treatment of hirsutism. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 1999;141(4):361‐7. [PUBMED: 10526249] - PubMed
Farina 2006 {published data only}
    1. Farina M, Ciotta L, Palumbo M, Leo V, Morgante G, Cianci A. Effectiveness of an oral contraceptive containing ethinyl‐estradiol combined with drospirenone in the treatment of symptomatic hyperandrogenism [Efficacica clinica di un contraccettivo orale contenente etinilestradiolo e drospirenone nel trattamento dell'iperandrogenismo sintomatico]. Italian Journal of Gynaecology & Obstetrics 2006;18(1):18‐31. [EMBASE: 2008312396]
Farquhar 2002 {published data only}
    1. Farquhar CM, Williamson K, Gudex G, Johnson NP, Garland J, Sadler L. A randomized controlled trial of laparoscopic ovarian diathermy versus gonadotrophin therapy for women with clomiphene resistant polycystic ovarian syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2002;78(2):404‐11. [EMBASE: 2002275330] - PubMed
    1. Mohiuddin S, Bessellink D, Farquhar C. Long‐term follow up of women with laparoscopic ovarian diathermy for women with clomiphene‐resistant polycystic ovarian syndrome. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 2007;47(6):508‐11. [PUBMED: 17991119] - PubMed
Fruzzetti 1999 {published data only}
    1. Fruzzetti F, Bersi C, Parrini D, Ricci C, Genazzani AR. Treatment of hirsutism: comparisons between different antiandrogens with central and peripheral effects. Fertility & Sterility 1999;71(3):445‐51. [PUBMED: 10065780] - PubMed
Fruzzetti 2010 {published data only}
    1. Daria P, Fruzzetti, Genazzani AR. Metabolic effects of of 3 mg drospirenone plus 20 mg ethinyl estradiol alone or combined with metformin or cyproterone acetate. XVI International Congress of ISPOG Venezia, Italy October 28‐30, 2010. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology 2010;31:78. [EMBASE: 70302184]
    1. Fruzzetti F, Perini D, Lazzarini V, Parrini D, Gambacciani M, Genazzani AR. Comparison of effects of 3 mg drospirenone plus 20 ug ethinyl estradiol alone or combined with metformin or cyproterone acetate on classic metabolic cardiovascular risk factors in nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2010;94(5):1793‐8. [PUBMED: 19931080] - PubMed
Gambineri 2005 {published data only}
    1. Gambineri A, Patton L, Iasio R, Cantelli B, Cognini GE, Filicori M, et al. Efficacy of octreotide‐LAR in dieting women with abdominal obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2005;90(7):3854‐62. [PUBMED: 15827099] - PubMed
Gambineri 2006 {published data only}
    1. Gambineri A, Patton L, Vaccina A, Cacciari M, Morselli‐Labate AM, Cavazza C, et al. Treatment with flutamide, metformin, and their combination added to a hypocaloric diet in overweight‐obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized, 12‐month, placebo‐controlled study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2006;91(10):3970‐80. [PUBMED: 16868063] - PubMed
    1. Gambineri A, Pelusi C, Genghini S, Morselli‐Labate AM, Cacciari M, Pagotto U, et al. Effect of flutamide and metformin administered alone or in combination in dieting obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Clinical Endocrinology 2004;60(2):241‐9. [PUBMED: 14725687] - PubMed
Ganie 2004 {published data only}
    1. Ganie MA, Khurana ML, Eunice M, Gupta N, Gulati M, Dwivedi SN, et al. Comparison of efficacy of spironolactone with metformin in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome: an open‐labeled study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2004;89(6):2756‐62. [PUBMED: 15181054] - PubMed
Ghosh 2008 {published data only}
    1. Ghosh D, Murphy C, Elsheikh M. A randomised trial comparing a low carbohydrate diet and nutrient‐balanced low glycaemic index diet on body weight, hyperandrogenism and cardiovascular risk factors in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) presented at Society for Endocrinology BES 2008, 7‐10 April 2008, Harrogate, UK. Endocrine Abstracts 2008;15:P279.
Grant 2010 {published data only}
    1. Grant P. Spearmint herbal tea has significant anti‐androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome. A randomized controlled trial. Phytotherapy Research 2010;24(2):168‐8. [PUBMED: 19585478] - PubMed
Hamzavi 2007 {published data only}
    1. Hamzavi I, Tan E, Shapiro J, Lui H. A randomized bilateral vehicle‐controlled study of eflornithine cream combined with laser treatment versus laser treatment alone for facial hirsutism in women. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2007;57(1):54‐9. [PUBMED: 17270315] - PubMed
Harborne 2003 {published data only}
    1. Harborne L, Fleming R, Lyall H, Norman J. Metformin or Dianette treatment of hirsutism with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Human Reproduction 2002;17(1):45.
    1. Harborne L, Fleming R, Lyall H, Sattar N, Norman J. Metformin or antiandrogen in the treatment of hirsutism in polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2003;88(9):4116‐23. [PUBMED: 12970273] - PubMed
    1. Harborne L, Norman J, Lyall H, Flemming R. Metformin may be more effective than Dianette in the treatment of hirsutism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction 2003;18(Suppl 1):173.
Heiner 1995 {published data only}
    1. Heiner JS, Greendale GA, Kawakami AK, Lapolt PS, Fisher M, Young D, et al. Comparison of a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist and a low dose oral contraceptive given alone or together in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1995;80(12):3412‐8. [PUBMED: 8530574] - PubMed
Hoeger 2004 {published data only}
    1. Hoeger KM, Kochman L, Wixom N, Craig K, Miller RK, Guzick DS. A randomized, 48‐week, placebo‐controlled trial of intensive lifestyle modification and/or metformin therapy in overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a pilot study. Fertility & Sterility 2004;82(2):421‐9. [PUBMED: 15302293] - PubMed
Hoeger 2008 {published data only}
    1. Hoeger K, Davidson K, Kochman L, Cherry T, Kopin L, Guzick DS. The impact of metformin, oral contraceptives, and lifestyle modification on polycystic ovary syndrome in obese adolescent women in two randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trials. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2008;93(11):4299‐306. [PUBMED: 18728175] - PMC - PubMed
Holdaway 1985 {published data only}
    1. Holdaway IM, Croxson MS, Ibbertson HK, Sheehan A, Knox B, France J. Cyproterone acetate as initial treatment and maintenance therapy for hirsutism. Acta Endocrinologica 1985;109(4):522‐9. [PUBMED: 2930987] - PubMed
Huber 1985 {published data only}
    1. Huber J, Schmidt J, Spona J. Hirsutism therapy by a single 300 mg im administration of cyproterone acetate vs 1000 mg oral treatment. Archives of Gynecology 1985;237(Suppl 1):200.
Ibáñez 2002 {published data only}
    1. Ibáñez L, Valls C, Ferrer A, Ong K, Dunger DB, Zegher F. Additive effects of insulin‐sensitizing and anti‐androgen treatment in young, nonobese women with hyperinsulinism, hyperandrogenism, dyslipidemia, and anovulation. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2002;87(6):2870‐4. [PUBMED: 12050266] - PubMed
Ibáñez 2003 {published data only}
    1. Ibáñez L, Ong K, Ferrer A, Amin R, Dunger D, Zegher F. Low‐dose flutamide‐metformin therapy reverses insulin resistance and reduces fat mass in nonobese adolescents with ovarian hyperandrogenism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2003;88(6):2600‐6. [PUBMED: 12788862] - PubMed
Ibáñez 2009 {published data only}
    1. Ibáñez L, López‐Bermejo A, Díaz M, Enríquez G, Río L, Zegher F. Low‐dose pioglitazone, flutamide, metformin plus an estro‐progestagen for non‐obese young women with polycystic ovary syndrome: increasing efficacy and persistent safety over 30 months. Gynecological Endocrinology 2010;26(12):869‐73. [PUBMED: 20500100] - PubMed
    1. Ibáñez L, López‐Bermejo A, Díaz M, Enríquez G, Valls C, Zegher F. Pioglitazone (7.5 mg/day) added to flutamide‐metformin in women with androgen excess: additional increments of visfatin and high molecular weight adiponectin. Clinical Endocrinology 2008;68(2):317‐20. [PUBMED: 18031315] - PubMed
    1. Ibáñez L, López‐Bermejo A, Díaz M, Enríquez G, Río L, Zegher F. Low‐dose pioglitazone and low‐dose flutamide added to metformin and oestro‐progestagens for hyperinsulinaemic women with androgen excess: add‐on benefits disclosed by a randomized double‐placebo study over 24 months. Clinical Endocrinology 2009;71(3):351‐7. [PUBMED: 19018783] - PubMed
    1. Ibáñez L, López‐Bermejo A, Rio L, Enríquez G, Valls C, Zegher F. Combined low‐dose pioglitazone, flutamide, and metformin for women with androgen excess. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2007;92(5):1710‐4. [PUBMED: 17299064] - PubMed
Ibáñez 2011B {published data only}
    1. Ibáñez L, López‐Bermejo A, Díaz M, Marcos MV, Zegher F. Early metformin therapy (age 8‐12 years) in girls with precocious pubarche to reduce hirsutism, androgen excess, and oligomenorrhea in adolescence. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2011;96(8):E1262‐7. [PUBMED: 21632811] - PubMed
Ibáñez 2012 {published data only}
    1. Díaz M, Chacón MR, López‐Bermejo A, Maymó‐Masip E, Salvador C, Vendrell J, et al. Ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate versus low‐dose pioglitazone‐flutamide‐metformin for adolescent girls with androgen excess: divergent effects on CD163, TWEAK receptor, ANGPTL4, and LEPTIN expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2012;97(10):3630‐8. [PUBMED: 22791755] - PubMed
    1. Ibáñez L, Diaz M, Lopez‐Bermejo A, Salvador C, Zegher F. Ethinylestradiol‐cyproterone acetate vs pioglitazone‐flutamide‐metformin in adolescent girls with androgen excess. Endocrine Reviews 2011;32(3 Meeting Abstracts):P2‐247.
    1. Ibáñez L, Diaz M, Lopez‐Bermejo A, Salvador C, Zegher F. Ethinylestradiol‐cyproterone acetate vs pioglitazone‐flutamide‐metformin in adolescent girls with androgen excess. 50th Annual Meeting of the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology, ESPE 2011 Glasgow United Kingdom. Conference Start: 20110925 Conference End: 20110928. Hormone Research in Paediatrics 2011;76(Suppl 2):93. [EMBASE: 70570644]
    1. Ibáñez L, Diaz M, Sebastiani G, Sánchez‐Infantes D, Salvador C, Lopez‐Bermejo A, et al. Treatment of androgen excess in adolescent girls: ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate versus low‐dose pioglitazone‐flutamide‐metformin. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2011;96(11):3361‐6. [PUBMED: 21865363] - PubMed
    1. Ibáñez L, Díaz M, Chacón MR, López‐Bermejo, Maymo‐Masip E, Salvador C, et al. Ethinyloestradiol‐cyproteroneacetate versus low‐dose pioglitazone‐flutamide‐metformin for adolescent girls with androgen excess: divergent effects over 1 year. Hormone Research in Paediatrics 2012;78(Suppl 1):95. [EMBASE: 70896314]
Iraji 2005 {published data only}
    1. Iraji F, Karbasioun S, Aminorroaya A. Topical finasteride in hirsutism: a double blind randomized clinical trial on adult women. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences 2005;10(6):337‐42. [EMBASE: 2005581713]
Jackson 2007 {published data only}
    1. Jackson J, Caro JJ, Caro G, Garfield F, Huber F, Zhou W, et al. The effect of eflornithine 13.9% cream on the bother and discomfort due to hirsutism. International Journal of Dermatology 2007;46(9):976‐81. [PUBMED: 17822506] - PubMed
Javidnia 2003 {published data only}
    1. Javidnia K, Dastgheib L, Mohammadi Samani S, Nasiri A. Antihirsutism activity of fennel (fruits of Foeniculum vulgare) extract. A double‐blind placebo controlled study. Phytomedicine 2003;10(6‐7):455‐8. [PUBMED: 13678227] - PubMed
Jedel 2011 {published data only}
    1. Jedel E, Labrie F, Odén A, Holm G, Nilsson L, Janson PO, et al. Impact of electro‐acupuncture and physical exercise on hyperandrogenism and oligo/amenorrhea in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physiology, Endocrinology & Metabolism 2011;300(1):E37‐45. [PUBMED: 20943753] - PubMed
Kaiser 1984 {published data only}
    1. Kaiser E. Effect of a new hormonal contraceptive (Neo‐Eunomin) in females with androgenization symptoms [Wirkung Eines Neuen Hormonalen Kontrazeptivums (Neo‐Eunomin) Bei Frauen Mit Androgenisierungserscheinungen]. Geburtshilfe Und Frauenheilkunde 1984;44(10):651‐5. [EMBASE: 1984246709] - PubMed
Kaya 2010 {published data only}
    1. Kaya C, Pabuccu R, Cengiz SD, Dünder I. Comparison of the effects of atorvastatin and simvastatin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective, randomized study. Experimental & Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes 2010;118(3):161‐6. [PUBMED: 20146169] - PubMed
Kelekci 2012 {published data only}
    1. Kelekci KH, Kelekci S, Yengel I, Gul S, Yilmaz B. Cyproterone acetate or drospirenone containing combined oral contraceptives plus spironolactone or cyproterone acetate for hirsutism: randomized comparison of three regimens. Journal of Dermatological Treatment 2012;23(3):177‐83. [PUBMED: 21254871] - PubMed
    1. Kelekci KH, Kelekci S, Yengel R, Gul F, Ylmaz B. Comparison of the efficacy of three different regimens in the treatment of moderate and severe hirsutism. Conference: 8. Ulusal Jinekoloji ve Obstetrik Kongresi Carsamba Turkey. Turk Jinekoloji ve Obstetrik Dernegi Dergisi 2010;7:38. [EMBASE: 71042134]
Kelly 2002 {published data only}
    1. Kelly CJ, Gordon D. The effect of metformin on hirsutism in polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2002;147(2):217‐21. [PUBMED: 12153743] - PubMed
Kjøtrød 2004 {published data only}
    1. Kjøtrød SB, Düring V, Carlsen SM. Metformin treatment before IVF/ICSI in women with polycystic ovary syndrome; a prospective, randomized, double blind study. Human Reproduction 2004;19(6):1315‐22. [PUBMED: 15117902] - PubMed
Kriplani 2009 {published data only}
    1. Kriplani A, Thulkar J, Agrawal N, Kulshrestha V, Ammini AC, Kumar G. A comparative study of Diane‐35 plus spironolactone and Diane‐35 plus finasteride in cases of hirsutism and acne. International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 2009;7(4):235‐41.
Kriplani 2010 {published data only}
    1. Kriplani A, Anurekha J, Agarwal N, Kulshrestha V, Kumar A, Ammini A. Effect of oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol combined with drospirenone vs desogestrel on clinical and biochemical parameters in patients of polycystic ovarian syndrome. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2009;107(Suppl 2):S233.
    1. Kriplani A, Periyasamy AJ, Agarwal N, Kulshrestha V, Kumar A, Ammini AC. Effect of oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol combined with drospirenone vs. desogestrel on clinical and biochemical parameters in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Contraception 2010;82(2):139‐46. [PUBMED: 20654754] - PubMed
Lachnit‐Fixson 1977 {published data only}
    1. Lachnit‐Fixson U, Kaufmann J. Therapy of androgenization symptoms: double blind study of an antiandrogen preparation (SH B 209 AB) against neogynon [Zur Beeinflussung von Androgenisierungserscheinungen: Doppelblindstudie eines cyproteronacetathaltigen Präparats (SH B 209 AM) gegen Neogynon]. Medizinische Klinik 1977;72(45):1922‐6. [EMBASE: 1978213356] - PubMed
Ladson 2011 {published data only}
    1. Ladson G, Dodson WC, Sweet SD, Archibong AE, Kunselman AR, Demers LM, et al. The effects of metformin with lifestyle therapy in polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized double‐blind study. Fertility & Sterility 2011;95(3):1059‐66.e1‐7. [PUBMED: 21193187] - PMC - PubMed
Lakryc 2003 {published data only}
    1. Lakryc EM, Motta EL, Soares JM Jr, Haidar MA, Lima GR, Baracat EC. The benefits of finasteride for hirsute women with polycystic ovary syndrome or idiopathic hirsutism. Gynecological Endocrinology 2003;17(1):57‐63. [PUBMED: 12724020] - PubMed
Lam 2011 {published data only}
    1. Lam PM, Tam WH, Ma RC, Cheung LP, Tsui MH, Tong PC, et al. The reproductive and metabolic effect of rosiglitazone on Chinese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome‐‐a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled study. Fertility & Sterility 2011;96(2):445‐51. [PUBMED: 21722894] - PubMed
Lello 2008 {published data only}
    1. Colonna L, Pacifico V, Lello S, Sorge R, Raskovic D, Primavera G. Skin improvement with two different oestroprogestins in patients affected by acne and polycystic ovary syndrome: clinical and instrumental evaluation. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology 2012;26(11):1364‐71. [PUBMED: 22011217] - PubMed
    1. Lello S, Primavera G, Colonna L, Vittori G, Guardianelli F, Sorge R, et al. Effects of two estroprogestins containing ethynilestradiol 30 microg and drospirenone 3 mg and ethynilestradiol 30 microg and chlormadinone 2 mg on skin and hormonal hyperandrogenic manifestations. Gynecological Endocrinology 2008;24(12):718‐23. [PUBMED: 19172543] - PubMed
Lemay 2006 {published data only}
    1. Lemay A, Dodin S, Turcot L, Déchêne F, Forest JC. Rosiglitazone and ethinyl estradiol/cyproterone acetate as single and combined treatment of overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome and insulin resistance. Human Reproduction 2006;21(1):121‐8. [PUBMED: 16199428] - PubMed
Levrier 1988 {published data only}
    1. Levrier M, Degrelle H, Bestaux Y, Bourry‐Moreno M, Brun JP, Sailly F. Efficacy of oral contraceptives on acne. Apropos of a comparative study of Varnoline vs Diane in 69 women with acne [Efficacité sur l'acné des contraceptifs oreaux. A propos d'une étude comparative Varnoline versus Diane 35 chez 69 femmes acnéiques]. Revue Française De Gynécologie Et D'Obstétrique 1988;83(7‐9):573‐6. [EMBASE: 1988226069] - PubMed
Lissak 1989 {published data only}
    1. Lissak A, Sorokin Y, Calderon I, Dirnfeld M, Lioz H, Abramovici H. Treatment of hirsutism with cimetidine: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Fertility & Sterility 1989;51(2):247‐50. [PUBMED: 2521471] - PubMed
Lucas 2001 {published data only}
    1. Lucas KJ. Finasteride cream in hirsutism. Endocrine Practice 2001;7(1):5‐10. [PUBMED: 11250761] - PubMed
Lumachi 2003 {published data only}
    1. Lumachi F, Rondinone R. Use of cyproterone acetate, finasteride, and spironolactone to treat idiopathic hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 2003;79(4):942‐6. [PUBMED: 12749435] - PubMed
Luque‐Ramírez 2007 {published data only}
    1. Luque‐Ramírez M, Alvarez‐Blasco F, Botella‐Carretero JI, Martínez‐Bermejo E, Lasunción MA, Escobar‐Morreale HF. Comparison of ethinyl‐estradiol plus cyproterone acetate versus metformin effects on classic metabolic cardiovascular risk factors in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2007;92(7):2453‐61. [PUBMED: 17426085] - PubMed
Maciel 2004 {published data only}
    1. Maciel GA, Soares Júnior JM, Alves da Motta EL, Abi Haidar M, Lima GR, Baracat EC. Nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome respond better than obese women to treatment with metformin. Fertility & Sterility 2004;81(2):355‐60. [PUBMED: 14967373] - PubMed
Mastorakos 2002 {published data only}
    1. Mastorakos G, Koliopoulos C, Creatsas G. Androgen and lipid profiles in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome who were treated with two forms of combined oral contraceptives. Fertility & Sterility 2002;77(5):919‐27. [PUBMED: 12009344] - PubMed
Mastorakos 2006 {published data only}
    1. Mastorakos G, Koliopoulos C, Deligeoroglou E, Diamanti‐Kandarakis E, Creatsas G. Effects of two forms of combined oral contraceptives on carbohydrate metabolism in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2006;85(2):420‐7. [PUBMED: 16595221] - PubMed
McLellan 1989 {published data only}
    1. McLellan AR, Rentoul J, MacKie R, McInnes GT. Lack of effect of spironolactone on hair shaft diameter in hirsute females. Postgraduate Medical Journal 1989;65(765):459‐62. [PUBMED: 2690044] - PMC - PubMed
    1. McLellan AR, Rentoul J, MacKie R, McInnes GT. Spironolactone lacks efficacy in female hirsutism. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 1988;25(1):128P‐9P.
Meyer 2007 {published data only}
    1. Meyer C, McGrath BP, Teede HJ. Effects of medical therapy on insulin resistance and the cardiovascular system in polycystic ovary syndrome. Diabetes Care 2007;30(3):471‐8. [PUBMED: 17327307] - PubMed
Moghetti 2000 {published data only}
    1. Moghetti P, Tosi F, Tosti A, Negri C, Misciali C, Perrone F, et al. Comparison of spironolactone, flutamide, and finasteride efficacy in the treatment of hirsutism: a randomized, double blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2000;85(1):89‐94. [PUBMED: 10634370] - PubMed
    1. Negri C, Tosi F, Dorizzi R, Fortunato A, Spiazzi GG, Muggeo M, et al. Antiandrogen drugs lower serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels in hirsute subjects: evidence that serum PSA is a marker of androgen action in women. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2000;85(1):81‐4. [PUBMED: 10634368] - PubMed
Moghetti 2000B {published data only}
    1. Moghetti P, Castello R, Negri C, Tosi F, Perrone F, Caputo M, et al. Metformin effects on clinical features, endocrine and metabolic profiles, and insulin sensitivity in polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled 6‐month trial, followed by open, long‐term clinical evaluation. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2000;85(1):139‐46. [PUBMED: 10634377] - PubMed
Moltz 1984 {published data only}
    1. Moltz L, Kaiser E. Medium dose oral cyproterone acetate therapy in women with moderate hyperandrogenism. Geburtshilfe Und Frauenheilkunde 1984;44(1):47‐52. [EMBASE: 1984049118] - PubMed
Morin‐Papunen 2000 {published data only}
    1. Morin‐Papunen LC, Vauhkonen I, Koivunen RM, Ruokonen A, Martikainen HK, Tapanainen JS. Endocrine and metabolic effects of metformin versus ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2000;85(9):3161‐8. [PUBMED: 10999803] - PubMed
    1. Rautio K, Tapanainen JS, Ruokonen A, Morin‐Papunen LC. Effects of metformin and ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate on lipid levels in obese and non‐obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2005;152(2):269‐75. [PUBMED: 15745936] - PubMed
Morin‐Papunen 2003 {published data only}
    1. Morin‐Papunen L, Vauhkonen I, Koivunen R, Ruokonen A, Martikainen H, Tapanainen JS. Metformin versus ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate in the treatment of nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized study. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2003;88(1):148‐56. [PUBMED: 12519844] - PubMed
    1. Rautio K, Tapanainen JS, Ruokonen A, Morin‐Papunen LC. Effects of metformin and ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate on lipid levels in obese and non‐obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2005;152(2):269‐75. [PUBMED: 15745936] - PubMed
Müderris 2000 {published data only}
    1. Müderris II, Bayram F, Güven M. A prospective, randomized trial comparing flutamide (250 mg/d) and finasteride (5 mg/d) in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 2000;73(5):984‐7. [PUBMED: 10785225] - PubMed
Murdoch 1987 {published data only}
    1. Murdoch AP, McClean KG, Watson MJ, Dunlop W, Kendall Taylor P. Treatment of hirsutism in polycystic ovary syndrome with bromocriptine. British Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 1987;94(4):358‐65. [PUBMED: 3555604] - PubMed
Navali 2012 {published data only}
    1. Navali N, Shokoufe LA, Mallah F, Bastani P, Mashrabi O. Comparing therapeutic effects of metformin and pioglitazone in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences 2012;28(3):390‐4.
O'Brien 1991 {published data only}
    1. O'Brien RC, Cooper ME, Murray RM, Seeman E, Thomas AK, Jerums G. Comparison of sequential cyproterone acetate/estrogen versus spironolactone/oral contraceptive in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1991;72(5):1008‐13. [PUBMED: 1827125] - PubMed
Onalan 2005 {published data only}
    1. Önalan G, Goktolga U, Ceyhan T, Bagis T, Onalan R, Pabuçcu R. Predictive value of glucose‐insulin ratio in PCOS and profile of women who will benefit from metformin therapy: obese, lean, hyper or normoinsulinemic?. European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Biology 2005;123(2):204‐11. [PUBMED: 16316811] - PubMed
Oner 2011 {published data only}
    1. Oner G, Muderris II. A prospective randomized trial comparing low‐dose ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone 24/4 combined oral contraceptive vs. ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone 21/7 combined oral contraceptive in the treatment of hirsutism. Contraception 2011;84(5):508‐11. [PUBMED: 22018126] - PubMed
Oner 2011B {published data only}
    1. Oner G, Muderris II. Clinical, endocrine and metabolic effects of metformin vs N‐acetyl‐cysteine in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Biology 2011;159(1):127‐31. [PUBMED: 21831508] - PubMed
Ortega‐González 2005 {published data only}
    1. Ortega‐González C, Cardoza L, Coutiño B, Hidalgo R, Arteaga‐Troncoso G, Parra A. Insulin sensitizing drugs increase the endogenous dopaminergic tone in obese insulin‐resistant women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Endocrinology 2005;184(1):233‐9. [PUBMED: 15642799] - PubMed
    1. Ortega‐González C, Luna S, Hernández L, Crespo G, Aguayo P, Arteaga‐Troncoso G, et al. Responses of serum androgen and insulin resistance to metformin and pioglitazone in obese, insulin‐resistant women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2005;90(3):1360‐5. [PUBMED: 15598674] - PubMed
Otta 2010 {published data only}
    1. Otta CF, Wior M, Iraci GS, Kaplan R, Torres D, Gaido MI, et al. Clinical, metabolic, and endocrine parameters in response to metformin and lifestyle intervention in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized, double‐blind, and placebo control trial. Gynecological Endocrinology 2010;26(3):173‐8. [PUBMED: 20148739] - PubMed
Paoletti 1999 {published data only}
    1. Paoletti AM, Cagnacci A, Orrù M, Ajossa S, Guerriero S, Melis GB. Treatment with flutamide improves hyperinsulinemia in women with idiopathic hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1999;72(3):448‐53. [PUBMED: 10519615] - PubMed
Pasquali 1986 {published data only}
    1. Pasquali R, Fabbri R, Venturoli S, Paradisi R, Antenucci D, Melchionda N. Effect of weight loss and antiandrogenic therapy on sex hormone blood levels and insulin resistance in obese patients with polycystic ovaries. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 1986;154(1):139‐44. [PUBMED: 3511703] - PubMed
Pasquali 2000 {published data only}
    1. Pasquali R, Gambineri A, Biscotti D, Vicennati V, Gagliardi L, Colitta D, et al. Effect of long‐term treatment with metformin added to hypocaloric diet on body composition, fat distribution, and androgen and insulin levels in abdominally obese women with and without the polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2000;85(8):2767‐74. [PUBMED: 10946879] - PubMed
Pazos 1999 {published data only}
    1. Pazos F, Escobar‐Morreale HF, Balsa J, Sancho JM, Varela C. Prospective randomized study comparing the long‐acting gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist triptorelin, flutamide, and cyproterone acetate, used in combination with an oral contraceptive, in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1999;71(1):122‐8. [PUBMED: 9935128] - PubMed
Penna 2005 {published data only}
    1. Penna IA, Canella PR, Reis RM, Silva de Sá MF, Ferriani RA. Acarbose in obese patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study. Human Reproduction 2005;20(9):2396‐401. [PUBMED: 16006454] - PubMed
Porcile 1991 {published data only}
    1. Porcile A, Gallardo E. Long‐term treatment of hirsutism: desogestrel compared with cyproterone acetate in oral contraceptives. Fertility & Sterility 1991;55(5):877‐81. [PUBMED: 1827074] - PubMed
Porcile 1991B {published data only}
    1. Porcile A, Gallardo E. Oral contraceptive containing desogestrel in the maintenance of the remission of hirsutism: monthly versus bimonthly treatment. Contraception 1991;44(5):533‐40. [PUBMED: 1839144] - PubMed
Prezelj 1989 {published data only}
    1. Prezelj J, Kocijancic A, Andolsek L. Dexamethasone and spironolactone in the treatment of non‐tumorous hyperandrogenism. Gynecological Endocrinology 1989;3(4):281‐8. [PUBMED: 2516705] - PubMed
Rautio 2005 {published data only}
    1. Rautio K, Tapanainen JS, Ruokonen A, Morin‐Papunen LC. Effects of metformin and ethinyl estradiol‐cyproterone acetate on lipid levels in obese and non‐obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2005;152(2):269‐75. [PUBMED: 15745936] - PubMed
Rittmaster 1988 {published data only}
    1. Rittmaster RS, Givner ML. Effect of daily and alternate day low dose prednisone on serum cortisol and adrenal androgens in hirsute women. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1988;67(2):400‐3. [PUBMED: 2969002] - PubMed
Rittmaster 1990 {published data only}
    1. Rittmaster RS, Thompson DL. Effect of leuprolide and dexamethasone on hair growth and hormone levels in hirsute women: the relative importance of the ovary and the adrenal in the pathogenesis of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1990;70(4):1096‐102. [PUBMED: 2156885] - PubMed
Roth 2012 {published data only}
    1. Legro RS, Barnhart HX, Schlaff WD, Carr BR, Diamond MP, Carson SA, et al. Clomiphene, metformin, or both for infertility in the polycystic ovary syndrome. New England Journal of Medicine 2007;356(6):551‐66. [PUBMED: 17287476] - PubMed
    1. Roth LW, Huang H, Legro RS, Diamond MP, Coutifaris C, Carson SA, et al. Altering hirsutism through ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Obstetrics & Gynecology 2012;119(6):1151‐6. [PUBMED: 22617579] - PMC - PubMed
    1. Schlaff D, Legro RS, Diamond MP, Coutifaris C, Zhang H. Ovulation induction with clomiphene, metformin, or a combination of the two does not affect hirsutism score over a standard course of treatment in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2010;94(4 Suppl 1):S192‐3. [EMBASE: 70267683]
Sabuncu 2003 {published data only}
    1. Sabuncu T, Harma M, Harma M, Nazligul Y, Kilic F. Sibutramine has a positive effect on clinical and metabolic parameters in obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2003;80(5):1199‐204. [PUBMED: 14607575] - PubMed
Saeed 1993 {published data only}
    1. Saeed R, Akram J, Changezi HU, Saeed M. Treatment of hirsutism in polycystic ovarian syndrome with Diane, 50 mcg ethinyl estradiol and 2 mg cyproterone acetate. SPECIALIST/Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences 1993;9(2):109‐12.
Sahin 1998 {published data only}
    1. Sahin Y, Bayram F, Kelestimur F, Muderris I. Comparison of cyproterone acetate plus ethinyl estradiol and finasteride in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation 1998;21(6):248‐52. [EMBASE: 1998278320] - PubMed
Sanam 2011 {published data only}
    1. Sanam M, Ziba O. Desogestrel+ethinylestradiol versus levonorgestrel+ethinylestradiol. Which one has better affect on acne, hirsutism, and weight change. Saudi Medical Journal 2011;32(1):23‐6. [EMBASE: 2011113079] - PubMed
Sathyapalan 2012 {published data only}
    1. Sathyapalan T, Smith KA, Coady AM, Kilpatrick ES, Atkin SL. Atorvastatin therapy decreases androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate concentrations in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: randomized controlled study. Annals of Clinical Biochemistry 2012;49(Pt 1):80‐5. [PUBMED: 21972424] - PubMed
Schmidt 1987 {published data only}
    1. Schmidt JB, Huber J, Spona J. Parenteral and oral cyproterone acetate treatment in severe hirsutism. Gynecologic & Obstetric Investigation 1987;24(2):125‐30. [PUBMED: 3653783] - PubMed
Smith 2006 {published data only}
    1. Smith SR, Piacquadio DJ, Beger B, Littler C. Eflornithine cream combined with laser therapy in the management of unwanted facial hair growth in women: a randomized trial. Dermatologic Surgery 2006;32(10):1237‐43. [PUBMED: 17034372] - PubMed
Sobbrio 1990 {published data only}
    1. Sobbrio GA, Granata A, D'Arrigo F, Arena D, Panacea A, Trimarchi F, et al. Treatment of hirsutism related to micropolycystic ovary syndrome (MPCO) with two low‐dose oestrogen oral contraceptives: a comparative randomized evaluation. Acta Europaea Fertilitatis 1990;21(3):139‐41. [PUBMED: 2149912] - PubMed
Spritzer 2000 {published data only}
    1. Spritzer PM, Lisboa KO, Mattiello S, Lhullier F. Spironolactone as a single agent for long‐term therapy of hirsute patients. Clinical Endocrinology 2000;52(5):587‐94. [PUBMED: 10792338] - PubMed
Spuy 1995 {published data only}
    1. Spuy Z, Nugent F. The management of hirsutism in PCOS using GnRH agonist analogue therapy. 27th British Congress of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 1995:242.
Stener‐Victorin 2009 {published data only}
    1. Stener‐Victorin E, Jedel E, Janson PO, Sverrisdottir YB. Low‐frequency electroacupuncture and physical exercise decrease high muscle sympathetic nerve activity in polycystic ovary syndrome. American Journal of Physiology. Regulatory, Integrative & Comparative Physiology 2009;297(2):R387‐95. [PUBMED: 19494176] - PubMed
Taheripanah 2010 {published data only}
    1. Taheripanah R, Sepahvandi M, Entezari A, Amiri Z, Neisani Samani E. Evaluation of serum PSA after cyproterone compound treatment compared with oral contraceptive pill in hirsute polycystic ovary syndrome patients. Middle East Fertility Society Journal 2010;15(3):159‐62. [EMBASE: 2010600780]
Tartagni 2000 {published data only}
    1. Tartagni M, Schonauer LM, Salvia MA, Cicinelli E, Pergola G, D'Addario V. Comparison of Diane 35 and Diane 35 plus finasteride in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 2000;73(4):718‐23. [PUBMED: 10731531] - PubMed
Tartagni 2004 {published data only}
    1. Tartagni M, Schonauer MM, Cicinelli E, Petruzzelli F, Pergola G, Salvia MA, et al. Intermittent low‐dose finasteride is as effective as daily administration for the treatment of hirsute women. Fertility & Sterility 2004;82(3):752‐5. [PUBMED: 15374729] - PubMed
Tiitinen 1994 {published data only}
    1. Tiitinen A, Simberg N, Stenman UH, Ylikorkala O. Estrogen replacement does not potentiate gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist‐induced androgen suppression in treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1994;79(2):447‐51. [PUBMED: 8045961] - PubMed
Unfer 2000 {published data only}
    1. Unfer V, Gerli S, Costabile L, Renzo G. A prospective, randomized study comparing ethinylestradiol plus ciproterone acetate and flutamide in the treatment of hirsutism in PCOS patients. Gynecological Endocrinology 2000;14(Suppl 2):36.
van Vloten 2002 {published data only}
    1. Vloten WA, Haselen CW, Zuuren EJ, Gerlinger C, Heithecker R. The effect of 2 combined oral contraceptives containing either drospirenone or cyproterone acetate on acne and seborrhea. Cutis 2002;69(Suppl 4):2‐15. [PUBMED: 12096825] - PubMed
Vegetti 1996 {published data only}
    1. Vegetti W, Testa G, Maggioni P, Motta T, Falsetti L, Crosignani PG. An open randomized comparative study of an oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate. Gynecologic & Obstetric Investigation 1996;41(4):260‐8. [PUBMED: 8793497] - PubMed
Venturoli 1998 {published data only}
    1. Venturoli S, Ravaioli B, Bagnoli A, Colombo FM, Macrelli S, Iadarola I, et al. Contraceptive and therapeutic effectiveness of two low‐dose ethinylestradiol and cyproterone acetate regimens in the treatment of hirsute patients. European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care 1998;3(1):29‐33. [PUBMED: 9678070] - PubMed
Venturoli 1999 {published data only}
    1. Venturoli S, Marescalchi O, Colombo FM, Macrelli S, Ravaioli B, Bagnoli A, et al. A prospective randomized trial comparing low dose flutamide, finasteride, ketoconazole, and cyproterone acetate‐estrogen regimens in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1999;84(4):1304‐10. [PUBMED: 10199771] - PubMed
    1. Venturoli S, Vianello F, Bagnoli A, Colombo FM, Ravaioli B, Macrelli S. Comparison of ciproterone acetate, finasteride, flutamide and ketoconazole in the treatment of hirsutism. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 1997;76(167 Suppl):71.
Vermeulen 1988 {published data only}
    1. Vermeulen A, Rubens R. Effects of cyproterone acetate plus ethinylestradiol low dose on plasma androgens and lipids in mildly hirsute or acneic young women. Contraception 1988;38(4):419‐28. [PUBMED: 2974791] - PubMed
Vexiau 1995 {published data only}
    1. Vexiau P, Fiet J, Conard J, Abramovici Y, Boudou P, Hardy N, et al. 17 beta‐estradiol: oral or parenteral administration in hyperandrogenic women? Metabolic tolerance in association with cyproterone acetate. Fertility & Sterility 1995;63(3):508‐15. [PUBMED: 7851579] - PubMed
Vigorito 2007 {published data only}
    1. Vigorito C, Giallauria F, Palomba S, Cascella T, Manguso F, Lucci R, et al. Beneficial effects of a three‐month structured exercise training program on cardiopulmonary functional capacity in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2007;92(4):1379‐84. [PUBMED: 17264174] - PubMed
Visnovský 2010 {published data only}
    1. Visnovský J, Biringer K, Svecová I, Biringerová Z. Hormonal treatment effectivity in hyperandrogenic syndrome [Efect hormonálnej liečby hyperandrogénneho syndrómu]. Ceska Gynekologie 2010;75(5):481‐5. [PUBMED: 21374929] - PubMed
Wang 2012 {published data only}
    1. Wang QY, Huang W, Song YS, Li X, Shen LL. The impact of oral contraceptives, metformin and lifestyle modification on the metabolism disorder in polycystic ovary syndrome women: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2012;119(Suppl 3):S482. [EMBASE: 70905961]
Wolf 2007 {published data only}
    1. Jouanique C. Eflornithine: evidence of efficacy [L'éflornithin: les preuves de son efficacité]. Annales de Dermatologie et de Venereologie 2005;132(6‐7 Pt 2):3S11‐3. [PUBMED: 16223125] - PubMed
    1. Mathes BM, Manna V, Huber FJ, Jackson JD, Bogaerts J, Schrode KBA. Novel approach to treating excessive facial hair in women. Results of safety and efficacy studies with eflornithine hydrochloride 13.9% cream. Journal of Investigative Dermatology 2003;8(1):126.
    1. Wolf JE, Shander D, Huber F, Jackson J, Lin CS, Mathes BM, et al. Randomized, double‐blind clinical evaluation of the efficacy and safety of topical eflornithine HCl 13.9% cream in the treatment of women with facial hair. International Journal of Dermatology 2007;46(1):94‐8. [PUBMED: 17214730] - PubMed
Wong 1995 {published data only}
    1. Wong IL, Morris RS, Chang L, Spahn MA, Stanczyk FZ, Lobo RA. A prospective randomized trial comparing finasteride to spironolactone in the treatment of hirsute women. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1995;80(1):233‐8. [PUBMED: 7829618] - PubMed
Zheng 2005 {published data only}
    1. Zheng J, Cao Z, Zong L. Effect of rosiglitazone and metformin on clomiphene citrate resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Academic Journal of Xi'an Jiaotong University 2005;17(1):62‐5 +71. [EMBASE: 2005222450]

References to studies excluded from this review

Acién 1997 {published data only}
    1. Acién P, Mauri M, Gutierrez M. Clinical and hormonal effects of the combination gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone agonist plus oral contraceptive pills containing ethinyl‐oestradiol (EE) and cyproterone acetate (CPA) versus the EE‐CPA pill alone on polycystic ovarian disease‐related hyperandrogenisms. Human Reproduction 1997;12(3):423‐9. [PUBMED: 9130733] - PubMed
Anderson 1977 {published data only}
    1. Anderson JAR, Browning MCK. An assessment of (1) cyproterone acetate and (2) ethinyloestradiol and lynoestrenol (Minilyn) in the treatment of 'idiopathic' hirsutism. British Journal of Dermatology 1977;97(15):20‐1. [EMBASE: 0978137436] - PubMed
Ansarin 2007 {published data only}
    1. Ansarin H, Mehregan R, Hosseini J. Comparison of spironolactone plus cyproterone acetate plus cyproterone compound with spironolactone plus cyproterone compound in hirsutism: a randomized clinical trial. Iranian Journal of Dermatology 2004;7(3):156‐65.
Avnstorp 1982 {published data only}
    1. Avnstorp C, Hamann K. Epilation of facial hirsutism in women. A study of the therapeutic effects. Ugeskrift for Laeger 1982;144(5):315‐7. [PUBMED: 7041385] - PubMed
Baranowska 1983 {published data only}
    1. Baranowska B, Stopinska‐Gluszak U, Niewiadomska A, Rozbicka G. Analysis of the results of treatment of idiopathic hirsutism and hirsutism in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome with androcur (cyproterone acetate) [Analiza wynikow leczenia Androcurem (octanem cyproteronu) hirsutyzmu idiopatycznego i hirsutyzmu u pacjentek z zespollem policystycznych jajnikow]. Endokrynologia Polska 1983;34(4):227‐34. [EMBASE: 6228420] - PubMed
Barrett‐Connor 1999 {published data only}
    1. Barrett‐Connor E, Young R, Notelovitz M, Sullivan J, Wiita B, Yang HM, et al. A two‐year, double‐blind comparison of estrogen‐androgen and conjugated estrogens in surgically menopausal women. Effects on bone mineral density, symptoms and lipid profiles. Journal of Reproductive Medicine 1999;44(12):1012‐20. [PUBMED: 10649811] - PubMed
Barth 1989 {published data only}
    1. Barth JH, Cherry CA, Wojnarowska FT, Dawber RPR. Cyproterone acetate in the treatment of hirsute women. British Journal of Dermatology 1989;121(Suppl 34):31.
Batukan 2006 {published data only}
    1. Batukan C, Muderris II. Efficacy of a new oral contraceptive containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol in the long‐term treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 2006;85(2):436‐40. [PUBMED: 16595223] - PubMed
Bazex 1982 {published data only}
    1. Bazex J, Boubes A, Aschieri M. Clinical trial of oestro‐anti‐androgenic in the treatment of the cutaneous manifestations of hyperandrogenies [Essai clinique d'une association oestro‐anti‐androgenique dans le traitement des manifestations cutanees des hyperandrogenies]. Revue de Medecine de Toulouse 1982;18(6 Suppl):399‐401. [EMBASE: 1982194518]
Benjamin 1971 {published data only}
    1. Benjamin F, Kolodny HD, Schwartz ED. The comparative effects of the administration of cortisone, estrogen‐progestin, and placebo on the clinical manifestations of the polycystic ovary (Stein‐Leventhal) syndrome. Journal of Reproductive Medicine 1971;6(6):266‐9. [PUBMED: 4255649] - PubMed
Bridger 2006 {published data only}
    1. Bridger T, MacDonald S, Baltzer F, Rodd C. Randomized placebo‐controlled trial of metformin for adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine 2006;160(3):241‐6. [EMBASE: 2006120339] - PubMed
Buckshee 1986 {published data only}
    1. Buckshee K, Ahuja MM. Therapeutic evaluation of spironolactone in Indian women with hirsutism. Journal of the Association of Physicians of India 1986;34(8):577‐9. [PUBMED: 3793679] - PubMed
Carmina 1997 {published data only}
    1. Carmina E, Lobo RA. Gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone agonist therapy for hirsutism is as effective as high dose cyproterone acetate but results in a longer remission. Human Reproduction 1997;12(4):663‐6. [PUBMED: 9159420] - PubMed
Castel‐Branco 1998 {published data only}
    1. Castelo‐Branco C, Martínez de Osaba MJ, Pons F, Vanrell JA. Effects on bone mass of two oral contraceptives containing ethinylestradiol and cyproterone acetate or desogestrel: results of a 2‐year follow‐up. European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care 1998;3(2):79‐84. [PUBMED: 9710711] - PubMed
    1. Fortuny A, Castelo Branco C, Martinez de Osaba MJ, Pons F. Gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone analogue plus contraceptives in women with severe hirsutism: effects on hair, bone and hormones after one‐year. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 1997;76(Suppl):76.
Castello 1991 {published data only}
    1. Castello R, Moghetti A, Magnani C, Zardini G, Furlani L, Tosi F, et al. Spironolactone versus spironolactone plus liquorice in hirsutism: hormonal evaluation. Journal of Gynaecological Endocrinology 1991;7‐8(1‐4):34‐7. [EMBASE: 1993278155]
Codner 2009 {published data only}
    1. Codner E, Iñiguez G, López P, Eyzaguirre F, Assenjo S, Torrealba I, et al. Metformin for the treatment of hyperandrogenism in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a double blind randomized study. Hormone Research 2009;72(Suppl 3):431. - PubMed
Cremoncini 1976 {published data only}
    1. Cremoncini C, Vignati E, Libroia A. Treatment of hirsutism and acne in women with two combinations of cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol. Acta Europaea Fertilitatis 1976;7(4):299‐314. [PUBMED: 140576] - PubMed
Cullberg 1985 {published data only}
    1. Cullberg G, Hamberger L, Mattsson LA, Mobacken H, Samsioe G. Effects of a low‐dose desogestrel‐ethinylestradiol combination on hirsutism, androgens and sex hormone binding globulin in women with a polycystic ovary syndrome. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 1985;64(3):195‐202. [PUBMED: 3160211] - PubMed
Cunliffe 1973 {published data only}
    1. Cunliffe WJ, Williams M. Topical aminoglutethimide in hirsutism. British Journal of Dermatology 1973;88(1):95‐6. [PUBMED: 4568661] - PubMed
Dahlgren 1998 {published data only}
    1. Dahlgren E, Landin K, Krotkiewski M, Holm G, Janson PO. Effects of two antiandrogen treatments on hirsutism and insulin sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction 1998;13(10):2706‐11. [PUBMED: 9804218] - PubMed
Dennerstein 1984 {published data only}
    1. Dennerstein L, Callan A, Warne G, Montalto J, Brown J, Burrows G, et al. The effects of benzodiazepines on hormones in women with idiopathic hirsutism. Progress in Neuro‐Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry 1984;8(1):11‐7. [PUBMED: 6145182] - PubMed
Devoto 2000 {published data only}
    1. Devoto E, Aravena L, Ríos R. Treatment of hirsutism with spironolactone and with spironolactone plus dexamethasone [Tratamiento del hirsutismo con espironolactona y con espironolactona más dexametasona]. Revista Médica de Chile 2000;128(8):868‐75. [EMBASE: 11129548] - PubMed
Devoto 2004 {published data only}
    1. Devoto CE, Aravena CL. Effectiveness of flutamide alone or combined with oral contraceptives in the treatment of hirsutism in women [Eficacia de la flutamida en eltratamiento del hirsutismo. Contribución del uso combinadocon anticonceptivos orales en mujeres normoandrogénicas]. Revista Médica de Chile 2004;132(7):845‐52. [EMBASE: 15379332] - PubMed
Dikensoy 2009 {published data only}
    1. Dikensoy E, Balat O, Pence S, Akcali C, Cicek H. The risk of hepatotoxicity during long‐term and low‐dose flutamide treatment in hirsutism. Archives of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2009;279(3):321‐7. [PUBMED: 18607612] - PubMed
Erdmann 1994 {published data only}
    1. Erdmann D, Schindler EM, Schindler AE. Ovarian suppression with Diane 35/50 [Die Ovarielle Suppression Unter Diane 35/50]. Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde 1994;54(11):627‐33. [EMBASE: 1994361652] - PubMed
Erenus 1995 {published data only}
    1. Erenus M. Efficacy of flutamide versus spironolactone. Fertility & Sterility 1995;63(3):680. [PUBMED: 7851609] - PubMed
Escobar‐Morreale 1998 {published data only}
    1. Escobar‐Morreale HF, Serrano‐Gotarredona J, García‐Robles R, Varela C, Sancho JM. Abnormalities in the serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1 axis in women with hyperandrogenism. Fertility & Sterility 1998;70(6):1090‐100. [PUBMED: 9848301] - PubMed
Falsetti 1997 {published data only}
    1. Falsetti L, Fusco D, Eleftheriou G, Rosina B. Treatment of hirsutism by finasteride and flutamide in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynecological Endocrinology 1997;11(4):251‐7. [PUBMED: 9272421] - PubMed
Falsetti 1997B {published data only}
    1. Falsetti L, De FD, Rosina B. The use of finasteride and flutamide in the management of hirsutism [Finasteride e flutamide nel trattamento dell'irsutismo]. Minerva Ginecologica 1997;49(10):463‐8. [EMBASE: 1997372999] - PubMed
    1. Falsetti L, Scalchi S, Bugari G. Nonsteroidal antiandrogens in the treatment of hirsutism [Gli antiandrogeni non steroidei nel trattamento dell'irsutismo]. Giornale Italiano di Ostetricia E Ginecologia 1998;20(10):459‐63. [EMBASE: 1998395459]
Fruzzetti 1993 {published data only}
    1. Fruzzetti F, Lorenzo D, Ricci C, Fioretti P. Clinical and endocrine effects of flutamide in hyperandrogenic women. Fertility & Sterility 1993;60(5):806‐13. [PUBMED: 8224265] - PubMed
Givens 1976 {published data only}
    1. Givens JR, Andersen RN, Wiser WL, Umstot ES, Fish SA. The effectiveness of two oral contraceptives in suppressing plasma androstenedione, testosterone, LH, and FSH, and in stimulating plasma testosterone‐binding capacity in hirsute women. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 1976;124(4):333‐9. [PUBMED: 1251854] - PubMed
Gökmen 1996 {published data only}
    1. Gökmen O, Senöz S, Gülekli B, Işik AZ. Comparison of four different treatment regimes in hirsutism related to polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynecological Endocrinology 1996;10(4):249‐55. [PUBMED: 8908525] - PubMed
Gomez 1987 {published data only}
    1. Gomez F, Ramelet AA, Rüedi B, Mühlemann M. Lack of effect of a spironolactone‐containing cream on hair growth in hirsute women. Dermatologica 1987;174(2):102‐3. [PUBMED: 3556697] - PubMed
Gregoriou 2000 {published data only}
    1. Gregoriou O, Bakas P, Konidaris S, Papadias K, Mathiopoulos D, Creatsas G. The effect of combined oral contraception with or without spironolactone on bone mineral density of hyperandrogenic women. Gynecological Endocrinology 2000;14(5):369‐73. [PUBMED: 11109976] - PubMed
Grigoriou 1996 {published data only}
    1. Grigoriou O, Papadias C, Konidaris S, Antoniou G, Karakitsos P, Giannikos L. Comparison of flutamide and cyproterone acetate in the treatment of hirsutism: a randomized controlled trial. Gynecological Endocrinology 1996;10(2):119‐23. [PUBMED: 8701785] - PubMed
Grund 1975 {published data only}
    1. Grund E, Schmidt‐Elmendorff H. The treatment of virilizing syndromes. Comparative clinical studies of 2 antiandrogen‐active gestagens (cyproterone acetate, megestrol acetate [Behandlung von Virilisierungserscheinungen: Vergleichende klinische Untersuchung zweier antiandrogenwirksamer Gestagene (Cyproteronazetat, Megestrolazetat]. Die Medizinische Welt 1975;26(48):2180‐7. [PUBMED: 128684] - PubMed
Gupta 1978 {published data only}
    1. Gupta R, Buckshee K, Baliga N, Hingorani V. Evaluation of estrogen‐progesterone and dexamethasone therapy in hirsutism. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry 1978;9(9):849. [MEDLINE: ]
Guzick 1994 {published data only}
    1. Guzick DS, Wing R, Smith D, Berga SL, Winters SJ. Endocrine consequences of weight loss in obese, hyperandrogenic, anovulatory women. Fertility & Sterility 1994;61(4):598‐604. [PUBMED: 8150098] - PubMed
Hahn 2004 {published data only}
    1. Hahn S, Quadbeck B, Elsenbruch S, Gärtner R, Finke R, Mann K, et al. Metformin, an efficacious drug in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome [Metformin – ein effektiver Therapieansatz in der Behandlung des Polyzystischen Ovarsyndroms]. Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift 2004;129(19):1059‐64. [EMBASE: 2004264208] - PubMed
Inal 2005 {published data only}
    1. Inal MM, Yildirim Y, Taner CE. Comparison of the clinical efficacy of flutamide and spironolactone plus Diane 35 in the treatment of idiopathic hirsutism: a randomized controlled study. Fertility & Sterility 2005;84(6):1693‐7. [PUBMED: 16359967] - PubMed
Jasonni 1991 {published data only}
    1. Jasonni VM, Bulletti C, Naldi S, Cosmo E, Cappuccini F, Flamigni C. Treatment of hirsutism by an association of oral cyproterone acetate and transdermal 17 beta‐estradiol. Fertility & Sterility 1991;55(4):742‐5. [PUBMED: 1826278] - PubMed
Karakurt 2008 {published data only}
    1. Karakurt F, Sahin I, Güler S, Demirbas B, Culha C, Serter R, et al. Comparison of the clinical efficacy of flutamide and spironolactone plus ethinyloestradiol/cyproterone acetate in the treatment of hirsutism: a randomised controlled study. Advances in Therapy 2008;25(4):321‐8. [PUBMED: 18389188] - PubMed
Kazerooni 2010 {published data only}
    1. Kazerooni T, Shojaei‐Baghini A, Dehbashi S, Asadi N, Ghaffarpasand F, Kazerooni Y. Effects of metformin plus simvastatin on polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Fertility & Sterility 2010;94(6):2208‐13. [PUBMED: 20079899] - PubMed
Keleştimur 1998 {published data only}
    1. Keleştimur F, Sahin Y. Comparison of Diane 35 and Diane 35 plus spironolactone in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1998;69(1):66‐9. [PUBMED: 9457935] - PubMed
Keleştimur 2004 {published data only}
    1. Keleştimur F, Everest H, Unlühizarci K, Bayram F, Sahin Y. A comparison between spironolactone and spironolactone plus finasteride in the treatment of hirsutism. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2004;150(3):351‐4. [PUBMED: 15012621] - PubMed
Knopp 2001 {published data only}
    1. Knopp RH, Broyles FE, Cheung M, Moore K, Marcovina S, Chandler WL. Comparison of the lipoprotein, carbohydrate, and hemostatic effects of phasic oral contraceptives containing desogestrel or levonorgestrel. Contraception 2001;63(1):1‐11. [PUBMED: 11257242] - PubMed
Lachnit‐Fixson 1979 {published data only}
    1. Lachnit‐Fixson U. The development and evaluation of an ovulation inhibitor (Diane) containing an antiandrogen. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 1979;58(Suppl 88):33‐42. [EMBASE: 1980079147] - PubMed
Landman 2001 {published data only}
    1. Landman RE, Jacobs TP, Azziz R, Ehrmann D, Legro RS, Whitcomb R, et al. Troglitazone use in polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2001;86(10):5090‐1. [EMBASE: 2001384970] - PubMed
Le Donne 2012 {published data only}
    1. Donne M, Alibrandi A, Giarrusso R, Lo Monaco I, Muraca U. Diet, metformin and inositol in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: effects on body composition [Dieta, Metformina e Inositolo in Donne Sovrappeso e Obese Con Sindrome Dell'Ovaio Policistico: Effetti Sulla Composizione Corporea]. Minerva Ginecologica 2012;64(1):23‐9. [EMBASE: 2012236009] - PubMed
Lee 2000 {published data only}
    1. Lee O, Farquhar C, Toomath R, Jepson R. Spironolactone versus placebo or in combination with steroids for hirsutism and/or acne [Spironolacton versus Placebo oder in Kombination mit Steroiden bei Hirsutismus und/oder Acne]. Schweizerische Rundschau Fur Medizin Praxis 2000;89(21):924. [EMBASE: 2000181606]
Lobo 1985 {published data only}
    1. Lobo RA, Shoupe D, Serafini P, Brinton D, Horton R. The effects of two doses of spironolactone on serum androgens and anagen hair in hirsute women. Fertility & Sterility 1985;43(2):200‐5. [PUBMED: 3967781] - PubMed
Lunde 1987 {published data only}
    1. Lunde O, Djøseland O. A comparative study of Aldactone and Diane in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry 1987;28(2):161‐5. [PUBMED: 3626553] - PubMed
Madani 2012 {published data only}
    1. Madani T, Irani S, Ashrafi M, Nabavi M.A. The effect of flutamide on ovulation induction in PCOS patients. International Journal of Fertility and Sterility 2012;6(1):65‐70. - PMC - PubMed
Manieri 1997 {published data only}
    1. Manieri C, Grosso T, Bisceglie C, Fornengo R, Tagliabue M, Martin V. Finasteride in idiopathic hirsutism. International Journal of Immunopathology & Pharmacology 1997;10(2):139‐45. [PUBMED: 1997237614]
Medical Letter 2000 {published data only}
    1. No authors listed. Eflornithine cream for facial hair reduction. Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics 2000;42(1089):96. [EMBASE: 2000368491] - PubMed
Mowbray 1959 {published data only}
    1. Mowbray RR, Spence AW, Medvei VC, Robinsom AM. Steroid therapy in hirsutism and virilism. British Medical Journal 1959;2(5150):456‐9. [PUBMED: 14424812] - PMC - PubMed
Müderris 1997 {published data only}
    1. Müderris II, Bayram F, Sahin Y, Keleştimur F. A comparison between two doses of flutamide (250 mg/d and 500 mg/d) in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 1997;68(4):644‐7. [PUBMED: 9341603] - PubMed
Nielsen 1985 {published data only}
    1. Nielsen DR, Larsen J, Pedersen IM, Starup J. Influence on androgens in the serum and urine and on urinary cortisol [Hirsutisme behandlet med cyproteronacetat og etinylostradiol. Indvirkningen pa androgener i serum og urin samt pa urin‐kortisol]. Ugeskrift for Laeger 1985;147(33):2589‐93. [PUBMED: 2933857] - PubMed
Paggi 1981 {published data only}
    1. Paggi A, Leri DO, Parrettini S. A short clinical trial of cyproterone acetate in the treatment of idiopathic hirsutism [Sperimentazione Clinica Breve Con Ciproterone Acetato Nella Terapia Degli Irsutismi Idiopatici]. Clinica Terapeutica 1981;96(4):443‐53. [EMBASE: 1982104209] - PubMed
Pai 1982 {published data only}
    1. Pai IF, Wu YC, Lu YC. Clinical trial of cyproterone acetate‐ethinyl oestradiol compound on androgen dependent skin disorders. Taiwan i Hsueh Hui Tsa Chih Journal of the Formosan Medical Association 1982;81(8):1048‐55. [PUBMED: 6217284] - PubMed
Pedersen 1985 {published data only}
    1. Pedersen IM, Nielsen DR, Larsen J, Starup J. Hirsutism treated with cyproterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol. Evaluation of the clinical effect [Hirsutisme Behandlet Med Cyproteronacetat of Etinylostradiol. Vurdering Af Den Kliniske Effekt]. Ugeskrift for Laeger 1985;147(33):2594‐6. [PUBMED: 2933858] - PubMed
Peereboom‐Wynia 1985 {published data only}
    1. Peereboom‐Wynia JD, Stolz E, Joost T, Kleiman H. A comparative study of the effects of electrical epilation of beard hairs in women with hirsutism by diathermy and by the blend method. Archives of Dermatological Research 1985;278(1):84‐6. [PUBMED: 4096535] - PubMed
Pugeat 1991 {published data only}
    1. Pugeat M, Nicolas MH, Dechaud H, Elmidani M. Administration of cyproterone acetate and natural oestrogens in the treatment of hirsutism [Association d'acétate de cyprotérone et d'estrogènes naturels dans le traitement de l'hirsutisme]. Journal de Gynecologie, Obstetrique et Biologie de la Reproduction 1991;20(8):1057‐62. [EMBASE: 1992119062] - PubMed
Rubens 1985 {published data only}
    1. Ruben R, Vermeulen A. Antiandrogens in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry 1985;23(Suppl):33S.
Sahin 2001 {published data only}
    1. Sahin Y, Dilber S, Keleştimur F. Comparison of Diane 35 and Diane 35 plus finasteride in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 2001;75(3):496‐500. [PUBMED: 11239530] - PubMed
Sert 2003 {published data only}
    1. Sert M, Tetiker T, Kirim S. Comparison of the efficiency of anti‐androgenic regimens consisting of spironolactone, Diane 35, and cyproterone acetate in hirsutism. Acta Medica Okayama 2003;57(2):73‐6. [PUBMED: 12866746] - PubMed
Siegberg 1987 {published data only}
    1. Siegberg R, Ylöstalo P, Laatikainen T, Pelkonen R, Stenman UH. Endocrine and clinical effects of spironolactone in female hyperandrogenism. Archives of Gynecology 1987;240(2):125‐30. [PUBMED: 3566358] - PubMed
Taner 2002 {published data only}
    1. Taner C, Inal M, Başogul O, Onoglu A, Karanfil C, Tinar S, et al. Comparison of the clinical efficacy and safety of flutamide versus flutamide plus an oral contraceptive in the treatment of hirsutism. Gynecologic & Obstetric Investigation 2002;54(2):105‐8. [PUBMED: 12566753] - PubMed
Thomas 1985 {published data only}
    1. Thomas AK, Slobodniuk R, Taft J, Cooper M, Montalto J, Jerums G. The treatment of hirsutism: experience with cyproterone acetate and spironolactone. Australasian Journal of Dermatology 1985;26(1):19‐24. [PUBMED: 2933024] - PubMed
Tolino 1996 {published data only}
    1. Tolino A, Petrone A, Sarnacchiaro F, Cirillo D, Ronsini S, Lombardi G, et al. Finasteride in the treatment of hirsutism: new therapeutic perspectives. Fertility & Sterility 1996;66(1):61‐5. [PUBMED: 8752612] - PubMed
Unlühizarci 2002 {published data only}
    1. Unlühizarci K K, Everest H, Bayram F, Keleştimur F. Comparison of spironolactone and spironolactone plus finasteride in the treatment of hirsutism. Fertility & Sterility 2002;78(6):1331‐3. [PUBMED: 12477537] - PubMed
Unluhizarci 2009 {published data only}
    1. Unluhizarci K, Ozel D, Tanriverdi F, Karaca Z, Kelestimur F. A comparison between finasteride, flutamide, and finasteride plus flutamide combination in the treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation 2009;32(1):37‐40. [PUBMED: 19337013] - PubMed
van Wayjen 1976 {published data only}
    1. Wayjen RG, Ende A. Anti‐androgenic steroid cyproterone acetate. Clinical pharmacology and therapeutic use in hirsutism and acne [Het anti‐androgene steroid cyproteron‐acetaat. Klinische farmacologie en toepassing bij hirsutisme en acne]. Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde 1976;120(5):189‐95. [PUBMED: 129710] - PubMed
Vicente 2009 {published data only}
    1. Vicente RA, Leite e Silva VR, Baby AR, Velasco MV, Bedin V. Double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of a cream containing the Stryphnodendron adstringens (Martius) Coville bark extract for suppressing terminal hair growth. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology 2009;23(4):410‐4. [PUBMED: 19192016] - PubMed
Wagner 1993 {published data only}
    1. Wagner RF Jr. Medical and technical issues in office electrolysis and thermolysis. Journal of Dermatologic Surgery & Oncology 1993;19(6):575‐7. [PUBMED: 8509519] - PubMed
Weiss 2007 {published data only}
    1. Weiss J. Promising results of drospirenone in the treatment of hirsutism [Therapie mit Drosiperon bei Hirsutismus Erfolg versprechend]. Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde 2007;67(8):806. [EMBASE: 2007499605]
Wild 1991 {published data only}
    1. Wild RA, Demers LM, Applebaum‐Bowden D, Lenker R. Hirsutism: metabolic effects of two commonly used oral contraceptives and spironolactone. Contraception 1991;44(2):113‐24. [PUBMED: 1893706] - PubMed
Yari 2010 {published data only}
    1. Yari F, Ghafarzadeh M, Vahabi S, Khadish A, Yari A. Clomiphene citrate and dexamethasone in treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility in Khoramabad. Journal Fur Reproduktionsmedizin Und Endokrinologie 2010;7(4):369. [EMBASE: 70300035]
Yilmaz 2005 {published data only}
    1. Yilmaz M, Karakoç A, Törüner FB, Cakir N, Tiras B, Ayvaz G, et al. The effects of rosiglitazone and metformin on menstrual cyclicity and hirsutism in polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynecological Endocrinology 2005;21(3):154‐60. [PUBMED: 16335907] - PubMed
Yücelten 1999 {published data only}
    1. Yücelten D, Erenus M, Gürbüz O, Durmuşoğlu F. Recurrence rate of hirsutism after 3 different antiandrogen therapies. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 1999;41(1):64‐8. [PUBMED: 10411413] - PubMed

References to studies awaiting assessment

Akha 2014 {published data only}
    1. Akha O, Rabiei K, Kashi Z, Bahar A, Zaeif‐Khorasani E, Kosaryan M, et al. The effect of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) gel 3% in decreasing hair thickness in idiopathic mild to moderate hirsutism. A randomized placebo controlled clinical trial. Caspian Journal of Internal Medicine 2014;5(1):26‐9. [PUBMED: 24490010] - PMC - PubMed
Atabekoglu 2013 {published data only}
    1. Atabekoglu CS, Sukur YE, Kahraman K, Ozmen B, Sonmezer M, Berker B. Comparison of two oral contraceptive forms containing cyproterone acetate and drospirenone in the treatment of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertility & Sterility 2013;100(3 Suppl 1):S348. [EMBASE: 71164969] - PubMed
Chung 2014 {published data only}
    1. Chan SSC, Yiu AKW, Chung JPW. A randomised, cross‐over study of medroxyprogesterone acetate and Diane‐35 in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 2013;120:345‐6. [EMBASE: 71136407]
    1. Chung JP, Yiu AK, Chung TK, Chan SS. A randomized crossover study of medroxyprogesterone acetate and diane‐35 in adolescent girls with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Journal of Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology 2014;27(3):166‐71. [PUBMED: 24656700] - PubMed
Ibañez 2013 {published data only}
    1. Ibáñez L, Diaz M, Sebastiani G, Marcos MV, Lopez‐Bermejo A, Zegher F. Oral contraception versus insulin sensitisation for 18 months in non‐obese adolescents with androgen excess: post‐treatment differences in C‐reactive protein, intima‐media thickness, visceral adiposity, insulin sensitivity and menstrual regularity. Hormone Research in Paediatrics 2013;80:170. [EMBASE: 71246786] - PubMed
    1. Ibáñez L, Díaz M, Sebastiani G, Marcos MV, López‐Bermejo A, Zegher F. Oral contraception vs insulin sensitization for 18 months in nonobese adolescents with androgen excess: posttreatment differences in C‐reactive protein, intima‐media thickness, visceral adiposity, insulin sensitivity, and menstrual regularity. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2013;98(5):E902‐7. [PUBMED: 23547047] - PubMed
Lai 2014 {published data only}
    1. Lai L, Flower A, Moore M, Lewith G. Chinese herbal medicine and polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized feasibility and pilot study in the United Kingdom. Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine 2014;20(5):A61‐2. [EMBASE: 71474759]
Martin Hernandez 1995 {published data only}
    1. Martin Hernandez T, Jorquera E, Torres A, Camacho F, Herrera E. Flutamide versus cyproterone acetate in the treatment of policystic ovary syndrome associated hirsutism [Comparacion de la eficacia de la flutamida y el acetato de ciproterona en el tratamiento del hirsutismo asociado al sindrome de los ovarios poliquisticos]. Actas Dermo‐Sifiliográficas 1995;86(6):327‐34. [EMBASE: 1995209158]
Mazza 2014 {published data only}
    1. Mazza A, Fruci B, Guzzi P, D'Orrico B, Malaguarnera R, Veltri P, et al. In PCOS patients the addition of low‐dose spironolactone induces a more marked reduction of clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism than metformin alone. Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases 2014;24(2):132‐9. [PUBMED: 23845740] - PubMed
Mirfeizi 2013 {published data only}
    1. Mirfeizi M. Comparison of the effects of a diet and physical activity trial in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of Diabetes 2013;5:16. [EMBASE: 71034570]
Nidhi 2013 {published data only}
    1. Nidhi R, Padmalatha V, Nagarathna R, Amritanshur R. Effects of a holistic yoga program on endocrine parameters in adolescents with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine 2013;19(2):153‐60. [PUBMED: 22808940] - PubMed
Romualdi 2013 {published data only}
    1. Romualdi D, Cicco S, Busacca M, Gagliano D, Lanzone A, Guido M. Clinical efficacy and metabolic impact of two different dosages of ethinyl‐estradiol in association with drospirenone in normal‐weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized study. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation 2013;36(8):636‐41. [PUBMED: 24105072] - PubMed
Sangeeta 2012 {published data only}
    1. Sangeeta S. Metformin and pioglitazone in polycystic ovarian syndrome: a comparative study. Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology of India 2012;62(5):551‐6. [PUBMED: 24082557] - PMC - PubMed
    1. Tagliaferri V, Busacca M, Gagliano D, Florio C, Tartaglia C, Cirella E, et al. Clinical efficacy and metabolic impact of two different dosages of ethinyl‐estradiol in association with drospirenone in normal‐weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction 2012;27(Suppl 2):Poster 545. [EMBASE: 71113752]
Tartagni 2014 {published data only}
    1. Tartagni MV, Alrasheed H, Damiani GR, Montagnani M, Salvia MA, Pergola G, et al. Intermittent low‐dose finasteride administration is effective for treatment of hirsutism in adolescent girls: a pilot study. Journal of Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology 2014;27(3):161‐5. [PUBMED: 24559619] - PubMed
Tirabassi 2013 {published data only}
    1. Tirabassi G, Giovannini L, Paggi F, Panin G, Panin F, Papa R, et al. Possible efficacy of lavender and tea tree oils in the treatment of young women affected by mild idiopathic hirsutism. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation 2013;36(1):50‐4. [PUBMED: 23211454] - PubMed

References to ongoing studies

IRCT201104251760N13 {unpublished data only}
    1. IRCT201104251760N13. Comparison of combined oral contraceptive Yasmin and Cyproteron compound on hirsutism and androgens in women with a polycystic ovary syndrome. //www.irct.ir/searchresult.php?id=1760&number=13 (accessed 3 September 2014).
IRCT2013072214106N1 {unpublished data only}
    1. IRCT2013072214106N1. Studying and preparing semi‐solid formulations of finastride and clinical evaluation of optimal form in the treatment of hirsutism. //www.irct.ir/searchresult.php?keyword=&id=14106&number=1&prt=... (accessed 3 September 2014).
ISRCTN01915371 {unpublished data only}
    1. ISRCTN01915371. Weight loss in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). //controlled‐trials.com/ISRCTN01915371 (accessed 3 September 2014).
ISRCTN29234515 {unpublished data only}
    1. ISRCTN29234515. Efficacy of low‐dose treatment with insulin sensitizers and antiandrogens versus that of an oral contraceptive on hirsutism, irregular menses, anovulation, body fat and markers of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk in girls with androgen excess and elevated insulin levels and without pregnancy risk. //controlled‐trials.com/ISRCTN29234515 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT00145340 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT00145340. Pioglitazone treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00145340 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT00152048 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT00152048. A 24 week randomised double blind placebo controlled study to evaluate the atrophogenic potential of eflornithine in the treatment of women with excessive facial hair. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00152048 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT00451568 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT00451568. Metformin and oral contraceptives in PCOS. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00451568 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT00744510 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT00744510. Reflexology's effect on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (REPOS). //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00744510 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT00746148 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT00746148. Reflexology's effect on polycystic ovary syndrome: a pilot study (REPOS). //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00746148 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT01051024 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT01051024. Diamel in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01051024 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT01396369 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT01396369. Impact of flaxseed lignan (Brevail) on polycystic ovarian syndrome. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01396369 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT01555190 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT01555190. Combination therapy with myo‐inositol and folic acid versus myo‐inositol alone: effects of six months treatment on clinical, endocrine and metabolic features in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01555190 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT01626443 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT01626443. Role of myo‐inositol and D‐chiro Inositol on the ovaric and metabolic functions. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01626443 (accessed 3 September 2014).
NCT01791647 {unpublished data only}
    1. NCT01791647. Myo‐inositol versus metformin in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. //clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01791647 (accessed 3 September 2014).

Additional references

Azziz 2003
    1. Azziz R. The evaluation and management of hirsutism. Obstetrics & Gynecology 2003;101(5 Pt 1):995‐1007. [PUBMED: 12738163] - PubMed
Azziz 2004
    1. Azziz R, Sanchez LA, Knochenhauer ES, Moran C, Lazenby J, Stephens KC, et al. Androgen excess in women: experience with over 1000 consecutive patients. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2004;89(2):453‐62. [PUBMED: 14764747] - PubMed
Azziz 2006
    1. Azziz R, Carmina E, Dewailly D, Diamanti‐Kandarakis E, Escobar‐Morreale HF, Futterweit W, et al. Position statement: criteria for defining polycystic ovary syndrome as a predominantly hyperandrogenic syndrome: an Androgen Excess Society guideline. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2006;91(11):4237‐45. [PUBMED: 16940456] - PubMed
Bailey 2014
    1. Bailey A. What effect does metformin have on hirsutism and acne in women with polycystic ovary syndrome? 2014. www.evidence.nhs.uk (accessed 3 September 2014).
Barth 1993
    1. Barth JH, Catalan J, Cherry CA, Day A. Psychological morbidity in women referred for treatment of hirsutism. Journal of Psychosomatic Research 1993;37(6):615‐9. [PUBMED: 8410747] - PubMed
Basow 1998
    1. Basow SA, Braman AC. Women and body hair: social perceptions and attitudes. Psychology of Women Quarterly 1998;22:637‐45.
Blume‐Peytavi 2008
    1. Blume‐Peytavi U, Hahn S. Medical treatment of hirsutism. Dermatologic Therapy 2008;21(5):329‐39. [PUBMED: 18844711] - PubMed
Blume‐Peytavi 2009
    1. Blume‐Peytavi U, Atkin S, Shapiro J, Lavery S, Grimalt R, Hoffmann R. European Consensus on the evaluation of women presenting with excessive hair growth. European Journal of Dermatology 2009;19(6):597‐602. [PUBMED: 19726276] - PubMed
Blume‐Peytavi 2011
    1. Blume‐Peytavi U. An overview of unwanted female hair. British Journal of Dermatology 2011;165(Suppl 3):19‐23. [PUBMED: 22171681] - PubMed
Blume‐Peytavi 2011b
    1. Blume‐Peytavi U, Vogt A. Current standards in the diagnostics and therapy of hair diseases ‐ hair consultation. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft 2011;9(5):394‐410. [PUBMED: 21284803] - PubMed
Blume‐Peytavi 2013
    1. Blume‐Peytavi U. How to diagnose and treat medically women with excessive hair. Dermatologic Clinics 2013;31(1):57‐65. [PUBMED: 23159176] - PubMed
Bode 2012
    1. Bode D, Seehusen DA, Baird D. Hirsutism in women. American Family Physician 2012;85(4):373‐80. [PUBMED: 22335316] - PubMed
Brodell 2010
    1. Brodell LA, Mercurio MG. Hirsutism: Diagnosis and management. Gender Medicine 2010;7(2):79‐87. [PUBMED: 20435271] - PubMed
Brown 2006
    1. Brown P, Brunnhuber K, Chalkidou K, Chalmers I, Clarke M, Fenton M, et al. How to formulate research recommendations. BMJ 2006;333(7572):804‐6. [EMBASE: 2006511299] - PMC - PubMed
Brown 2009
    1. Brown J, Farquhar C, Lee O, Toomath R, Jepson RG. Spironolactone versus placebo or in combination with steroids for hirsutism and/or acne. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 2. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000194.pub2] - DOI - PubMed
Caro 1996
    1. Caro JJ, Caro G, O'Brien JA, et al. Assessing quality of life implication of depigmentation: the BASC scale. American Academy of Dermatology 54th Annual Meeting (Feb 10‐15). Washington DC, 1996; Vol. 17.
Castelo‐Branco 2010
    1. Castelo‐Branco C, Cancelo MJ. Comprehensive clinical management of hirsutism. Gynecological Endocrinology 2010;26(7):484‐93. [PUBMED: 20218823] - PubMed
Coffey 2006
    1. Coffey S, Bano G, Mason HD. Health‐related quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a comparison with the general population using the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Questionnaire (PCOSQ) and the Short Form‐36 (SF‐36). Gynecological Endocrinology 2006;22(2):80‐6. [PUBMED: 16603432] - PubMed
Cook 2011
    1. Cook H, Brennan K, Azziz R. Reanalyzing the modified Ferriman‐Gallwey score: is there a simpler method for assessing the extent of hirsutism?. Fertility & Sterility 2011;96(5):1266‐70. [PUBMED: 21924716] - PMC - PubMed
Cosma 2008
    1. Cosma M, Swiglo BA, Flynn DN, Kurtz DM, Labella ML, Mullan RJ, et al. Clinical review: Insulin sensitizers for the treatment of hirsutism: a systematic review and metaanalyses of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2008;93(4):1135‐42. [PUBMED: 18252787] - PubMed
Costello 2007
    1. Costello MF, Shrestha B, Eden J, Johnson N, Moran LJ. Insulin‐sensitising drugs versus the combined oral contraceptive pill for hirsutism, acne and risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer in polycystic ovary syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 1. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005552.pub2] - DOI - PubMed
Domecq 2013
    1. Domecq JP, Prutsky G, Mullan RJ, Hazem A, Sundaresh V, Elamin MB, et al. Lifestyle modification programs in polycystic ovary syndrome: systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2013;98(12):4655‐63. [PUBMED: 24092832] - PubMed
Du 2012
    1. Du Q, Yang S, Wang YJ, Wu B, Zhao YY, Fan B. Effects of thiazolidinediones on polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta‐analysis of randomized placebo‐controlled trials. Advances in Therapy 2012;29(9):763‐74. [PUBMED: 22932791] - PubMed
Du 2012b
    1. Du Q, Wang YJ, Yang S, Wu B, Han P, Zhao YY. A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing pioglitazone versus metformin in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. Current Medical Research & Opinion 2012;28(5):723‐30. [PUBMED: 22462531] - PubMed
Dunaif 1992
    1. Dunaif A, Givens JK, Haseltine F, Merriam GR. The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Cambridge, MA: Blackwell Scientific, 1992.
Egger 1997
    1. Egger M, Smith GD, Schneider M, Minder C. Bias in meta‐analysis detected by a simple, graphical test. BMJ 1997;315(7109):629‐34. [PUBMED: 9310563] - PMC - PubMed
Ehrmann 2005
    1. Ehrmann DA. Polycystic ovary syndrome. New England Journal of Medicine 2004;352(12):1223‐36. [PUBMED: 15788499] - PubMed
Ekbäck 2009
    1. Ekbäck M, Wijma K, Benzein E. "It is always on my mind": women's experiences of their bodies when living with hirsutism. Healthcare for Women International 2009;30(5):358‐72. [PUBMED: 19350434] - PubMed
Ekbäck 2011
    1. Ekbäck M, Engfeldt P, Benzein E. "We feel rejected": experiences of women with hirsutism consulting physicians. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynaecology 2011;32(3):157‐9. [PUBMED: 21824045] - PubMed
Escobar‐Morreale 2010
    1. Escobar‐Morreale HF. Diagnosis and management of hirsutism. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 2010;1205:166‐74. [PUBMED: 20840269] - PubMed
Escobar‐Morreale 2012
    1. Escobar‐Morreale HF, Carmina E, Dewailly D, Gambineri A, Kelestimur F, Moghetti P, et al. Epidemiology, diagnosis and management of hirsutism: a consensus statement by the Androgen Excess and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Society. Human Reproduction Update 2012;18(2):146‐70. [PUBMED: 22064667] - PubMed
Farquhar 2012
    1. Farquhar C, Brown J, Marjoribanks J. Laparoscopic drilling by diathermy or laser for ovulation induction in anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2012, Issue 9. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001122.pub4] - DOI - PubMed
Guerra‐Tapia 2011
    1. Guerra‐Tapia A, Sancho Pérez B. Ethinylestradiol/chlormadinone acetate: dermatological benefits. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 2011;12(Suppl 1):3‐11. [PUBMED: 21895044] - PMC - PubMed
Guyatt 2004
    1. Guyatt G, Weaver B, Cronin L, Dooley JA, Azziz R. Health‐related quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, a self‐administered questionnaire, was validated. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology 2004;57(12):1279‐87. [PUBMED: 15617954] - PubMed
Guzel 2012
    1. Guzel AI, Kuyumcuoğlu U, Celik Y. Factors affecting the degree of hirsutism in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Archives of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2012;285(3):767‐70. [PUBMED: 21909749] - PubMed
Haedersdal 2006
    1. Haedersdal M, Gøtzsche PC. Laser and photoepilation for unwanted hair growth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004684.pub2] - DOI - PMC - PubMed
Haedersdal 2011
    1. Haedersdal M, Beerwerth F, Nash JF. Laser and intense pulsed light hair removal technologies: from professional to home use. British Journal of Dermatology 2011;165(Suppl 3):31‐6. [PUBMED: 22171683] - PubMed
Hatch 1981
    1. Hatch R, Rosenfield RL, Kim MH, Tredway D. Hirsutism: implications, etiology, and management. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 1981;140(7):815‐30. [PUBMED: 7258262] - PubMed
Higgins 2011
    1. Higgins JPT, Green S (editors). Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions Version 5.1.0 [updated March 2011]. The Cochrane Collaboration, 2011. Available from www.cochrane‐handbook.org.
Homburg 1996
    1. Homburg R. Polycystic ovary syndrome‐from gynaecological curiosity to multisystem endocrinopathy. Human Reproduction 1996;11(1):29‐39. [PUBMED: 8671153] - PubMed
Housman 2004
    1. Housman TS, Derrow AE, Snively BM, Lahiry S, Rapp SR, Hawes DR, et al. Women with excessive facial hair: a statistical evaluation and review of impact on quality of life. Cosmetic Dermatology 2004;17(3):165. [EMBASE: 2004124038]
Hozo 2005
    1. Hozo SP, Djulbegovic B, Hozo I. Estimating the mean and variance from the median, range, and the size of a sample. BMC Medical Research Methodology 2005;5:13. [PUBMED: 15840177] - PMC - PubMed
Jing 2008
    1. Jing Z, Liang‐Zhi X, Tai‐Xiang W, Ying T, Yu‐Jian J. The effects of Diane‐35 and metformin in treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: an updated systematic review. Gynecological Endocrinology 2008;24(10):590‐600. [PUBMED: 19012104] - PubMed
Keegan 2003
    1. Keegan A, Liao LM, Boyle M. 'Hirsutism': a psychological analysis. Journal of Health Psychology 2003;8(3):327‐45. [PUBMED: 14670212] - PubMed
Koulouri 2008
    1. Koulouri O, Conway GS. A systematic review of commonly used medical treatments for hirsutism in women. Clinical Endocrinology 2008;68(5):800‐5. [PUBMED: 17980017] - PubMed
Koulouri 2009
    1. Koulouri O, Conway GS. Management of hirsutism. BMJ 2009;338:b847. [PUBMED: 19329515] - PubMed
Lanigan 2001
    1. Lanigan SW. Management of unwanted hair in females. Clinical Dermatology 2001;26(8):644‐7. [PUBMED: 11722446] - PubMed
Legro 2013
    1. Legro RS, Arslanian SA, Ehrmann DA, Hoeger KM, Murad MH, Pasquali R, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2013;98(12):4565‐92. [PUBMED: 24151290] - PMC - PubMed
Lipton 2006
    1. Lipton MG, Sherr L, Elford J, Rustin MH, Clayton WJ. Women living with facial hair: the psychological and behavioral burden. Journal of Psychosomatic Research 2006;61(2):161‐8. [PUBMED: 16880018] - PubMed
Loo 2002
    1. Loo WJ, Lanigan SW. Laser treatment improves quality of life of hirsute females. Clinical & Experimental Dermatology 2002;27(6):439‐41. [PUBMED: 12372078] - PubMed
Lorenzo 1970
    1. Lorenzo EM. Familial study of hirsutism. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 1970;31(5):556‐67. [PUBMED: 4248490] - PubMed
Lumachi 2010
    1. Lumachi F, Basso SM. Medical treatment of hirsutism in women. Current Medicinal Chemistry 2010;17(23):2530‐8. [PUBMED: 20491644] - PubMed
Martin 2008
    1. Martin KA, Chang J, Ehrmann DA, Ibanez L, Lobo RA, Rosenfield RL, et al. Evaluation and treatment of hirsutism in premenopausal women: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2008;93(4):1105‐20. [PUBMED: 18252793] - PubMed
Moran 2011
    1. Moran LJ, Hutchison SK, Norman RJ, Teede HJ. Lifestyle changes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 7. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007506.pub3] - DOI - PubMed
Newcombe 1998
    1. Newcombe RG. Interval estimation for the difference between independent proportions: comparison of eleven methods. Statistics in Medicine 1998;17(8):873‐90. [PUBMED: 9595617 ] - PubMed
O'Brien 1998
    1. O'Brien SC, Lewis JB, Cunliffe WJ. The Leeds revised acne grading system. Journal of Dermatological Treatment 1998;9(4):215‐20. [EMBASE: 1999025622]
Olsen 1999
    1. Olsen EA. Methods of hair removal. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 1999;40(2 Pt1):143‐55. [PUBMED: 10025738] - PubMed
Paparodis 2011
    1. Paparodis R, Dunaif A. The hirsute woman: challenges in evaluation and management. Endocrine Practice 2011;17(5):807‐18. [PUBMED: 21856600] - PubMed
Pasquali 2013
    1. Pasquali R, Gambineri A. Therapy in endocrine disease: treatment of hirsutism in the polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies 2013;170(2):R75‐90. [PUBMED: 24272197] - PubMed
Randall 2008
    1. Randall VA. Androgens and hair growth. Dermatologic Therapy 2008;21(5):314‐28. [PUBMED: 18844710] - PubMed
RevMan 2014 [Computer program]
    1. The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration. Review Manager (RevMan). Version 5.3. Copenhagen: The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, 2014.
Richards 1995
    1. Richards RN, Meharg GE. Electrolysis: observations from 13 years and 140,000 hours of experience. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 1995;33(4):662‐6. [PUBMED: 7673501] - PubMed
Rosenfield 2005
    1. Rosenfield RL. Clinical practice. Hirsutism. New England Journal of Medicine 2005;353(24):2578‐88. [PUBMED: 16354894] - PubMed
Rotterdam Criteria PCOS 2004
    1. Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM‐Sponsored PCOS Consensus Workshop Group. Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long‐term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction 2004;19(1):41‐7. [PUBMED: 14711538] - PubMed
Sadighha 2009
    1. Sadighha A, Mohaghegh Zahed G. Meta‐analysis of hair removal laser trials. Lasers in Medical Science 2009;24(1):21‐5. [PUBMED: 18027066] - PubMed
Schulz 1995
    1. Schulz KF, Chalmers I, Hayes RJ, Altman DG. Empirical evidence of bias. Dimensions of methodological quality associated with estimates of treatment effects in controlled trials. JAMA 1995;273(5):408‐12. [PUBMED: 7823387] - PubMed
Shah 2009
    1. Shah D, Patel S. Hirsutism. Gynecological Endocrinology 2009;25(3):140‐8. [PUBMED: 19347703] - PubMed
Somani 2008
    1. Somani N, Harrison S, Bergfeld WF. The clinical evaluation of hirsutism. Dermatologic Therapy 2008;21(5):376‐91. [PUBMED: 18844715] - PubMed
Sonino 1993
    1. Sonino N, Fava GA, Mani E, Belluardo P, Boscaro M. Quality of life in hirsute women. Postgraduate Medical Journal 1993;69(809):186‐9. [PUBMED: 8497431] - PMC - PubMed
Stedman 2011
    1. Stedman MR, Curtin F, Elbourne DR, Kesselheim AS, Brookhart MA. Meta‐analyses involving cross‐over trials: methodological issues. International Journal of Epidemiology 2011;40(6):1732‐4. [PUBMED: 20026595] - PubMed
Swiglo 2008
    1. Swiglo BA, Cosma M, Flynn DN, Kurtz DM, Labella ML, Mullan RJ, et al. Clinical review: Antiandrogens for the treatment of hirsutism: a systematic review and metaanalyses of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 2008;93(4):1153‐60. [PUBMED: 18252786] - PubMed
Tang 2012
    1. Tang T, Lord JM, Norman RJ, Yasmin E, Balen AH. Insulin‐sensitising drugs (metformin, rosiglitazone, pioglitazone, D‐chiro‐inositol) for women with polycystic ovary syndrome, oligo amenorrhoea and subfertility. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2012, Issue 5. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003053.pub5] - DOI - PubMed
Teede 2006
    1. Teede HJ, Hutchison S, Zoungas S, Meyer C. Insulin resistance, the metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease risk in women with PCOS. Endocrine 2006;30(1):45‐53. [PUBMED: 17185791] - PubMed
Tiggeman 1998
    1. Tiggemann M, Kenyon SJ. The hairlessness norm: The removal of body hair in women. Sex Roles 1998;39(11‐12):873‐85.
Treadwell 2006
    1. Treadwell JR, Tregear SJ, Reston JT, Turkelson CM. A system for rating the stability and strength of medical evidence. BMC Medical Research Methodology 2006;19(6):52. [PUBMED: 17052350] - PMC - PubMed
van der Spuy 2003
    1. Spuy ZM, Roux PA, Matjila MJ. Cyproterone acetate for hirsutism. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 4. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001125] - DOI - PMC - PubMed
van Zuuren 2012
    1. Zuuren EJ, Fedorowicz Z, Carter B, Andriolo RB, Schoones J. Interventions for female pattern hair loss. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2012, Issue 5. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007628.pub3] - DOI - PubMed
Zawadski 1992
    1. Zawadski JK, Dunaif A. Diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome: towards a rational approach. In: Dunaif A, Givens JR, Haseltine F, Merriam GR editor(s). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Boston: Blackwell Scientific, 1992:377‐84.

References to other published versions of this review

van Zuuren 2013
    1. Zuuren EJ, Fedorowicz Z, Carter B. Interventions for hirsutism excluding laser and photoepilation therapy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 1. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD010334] - DOI - PMC - PubMed

Publication types

MeSH terms