GLP-1 Medications for PCOS: What Recent Research Shows

Below is a quick summary of some recent (2025) research on PCOS and GLP-1 (Semaglutide and Tirzepatide). Here at Pacific Northwest Medical Group we have helped many patients diagnosed with PCOS successfully lose weight and improve their health.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 6-10% of women of reproductive age and is closely tied to insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance. Traditional treatment options have been limited, but exciting new research is changing the landscape.

The Latest Research: A Game-Changer for PCOS

Remarkable Growth in Treatment Success

Recent 2025 data reveals that GLP-1 medications are increasingly helping women with PCOS. Among women with PCOS, prescriptions for GLP-1 medications increased 637% from 2021 to 2025—more than a 7-fold increase. Doctors are seeing real results[1].

Proven Benefits Beyond Weight Loss

Research shows GLP-1 medications address the core issues of PCOS:

Weight Loss & Metabolic Health

·       Tirzepatide: 21.7% average weight loss

·       Semaglutide: 16.4% average weight loss

·       Both significantly outperform traditional treatments like metformin[2][3]

Hormonal Balance & Menstrual Regularity

• Semaglutide restored regular menstrual cycles in up to 80% of women in clinical studies

• Both medications reduce androgen (testosterone) levels, helping with acne and excess hair growth[4][5]

Improved Insulin Sensitivity

• Clinical studies show significant reduction in insulin resistance markers

• Better insulin function means reduced symptoms and lower risk of type 2 diabetes[6]

Cardiovascular Health

• Both medications improve cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and waist circumference

• Protects long-term health beyond PCOS management[3]

Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide: Which Is Better?

Semaglutide (GLP-1 only)

·       Excellent track record for menstrual cycle regulation

·       Included in 2023 International PCOS Guidelines

·       Proven safety profile

·       Average 16.4% weight loss

Tirzepatide (GLP-1 + GIP dual action)

·       Newest option showing stronger metabolic results

·       Up to 21.7% weight loss—more effective weight management

·       Better HbA1c reduction and treatment adherence[7]

·       GIP component may reduce side effects like nausea for some patients[8]

The Bottom Line: Both work well. Tirzepatide shows slightly stronger weight loss results; semaglutide has more established data on menstrual cycle restoration. Your provider will recommend the best option for your individual needs.

What Makes These Different from Other PCOS Treatments?

Unlike metformin or birth control pills that address only part of PCOS, GLP-1 medications target the root cause: insulin resistance. They work by:

·       Helping your body use insulin more effectively

·       Reducing blood sugar spikes naturally

·       Promoting sustainable weight loss

·       Restoring hormonal balance

Your Next Step

If you have PCOS and struggle with weight, irregular periods, or other related symptoms, GLP-1 therapy may be the breakthrough you've been looking for. Our clinic provides personalized evaluation and ongoing support to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Ready to explore your options? Let's schedule a consultation to discuss which treatment is right for you.

References

[1] Truveta Research. (2025). Rising use of GLP-1 medications among women with PCOS. Retrieved from https://www.truveta.com/blog/research/

[2] Wu, M., et al. (2025). Tirzepatide vs semaglutide in PCOS: Comparative analysis of 20,000+ patients. Clinical Endocrinology.

[3] Nature. (2025). Efficacy and safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists on weight loss in PCOS patients. Scientific Reports, 15, 99622. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-99622-4

[4] Enhance.MD. (2025). Semaglutide and menstrual cycle restoration in PCOS. Retrieved from https://enhance.md/blog/

[5] OrderlyMeds. (2026). Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide for PCOS: Benefits and side effects. Retrieved from https://orderlymeds.com/resources/

[6] Pharmacy Times. (2025). GLP-1 receptor agonists alleviate PCOS symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.pharmacytimes.com/

[7] Auctores Online. (2025). Dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists in women with PCOS. Retrieved from https://www.auctoresonline.org/

[8] PCOS Sisters. (2025). Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide for PCOS treatment comparison. Retrieved from https://pcossisters.com/