Experimental Drug May Help Women Who Are Infertile

An experimental drug that normalizes the body’s use of insulin appears to be a promising treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome, a common cause of infertility. A study at Virginia Commonwealth University found that the treatment usually restores women’s ovulatory cycles while reversing hormonal imbalances.

Between 5% and 10% of women of reproductive age have polycystic ovary syndrome. Their ovaries are filled with small cysts, and they are often unable to menstruate. The researchers report in today’s New England Journal of Medicine that a compound called D-chiro-inositol, which occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables, appears effective without causing side effects when used in its pure form as a drug.

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Compiled by Times medical writer Thomas H. Maugh II