Date of Award
4-2026
Document Type
Independent Study
Department
Nursing
Program Affiliation
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
First Advisor
Dr. Jana Zwilling
Abstract
Background: PCOS is the most common endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age, affecting 5-6 million women in the United States. Symptoms include hirsutism, acne, hormone imbalances, menstrual irregularity, obesity, infertility, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. GLP-1s are being studied for their benefits in women with PCOS.
Purpose: To review the current evidence on the efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists in improving symptoms and complications of PCOS.
Methods: This scoping literature review used three databases, including CINAHL Ultimate, PubMed, and ClinicalKey. Inclusion criteria were women 18 and older diagnosed with PCOS and studies that evaluated any type of GLP-1 and their effect on PCOS. The metrics being evaluated include anthropometric measures, blood pressure, lipid profiles, sex hormones, metabolic parameters, body composition, menstrual frequency, and pregnancy rate.
Results: A total of 15 articles were found. Nine of the studies were meta-analyses, four were randomized study trials, one was a placebo-controlled trial, and one was a retrospective cohort study. GLP-1s reduce BMI, body weight, waist-to-hip ratio, waist circumference, blood pressure, total testosterone, free androgen index, blood glucose levels, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and oral glucose tolerance tests. They increase sex hormone binding globulin, menstrual frequency, and pregnancy rates. GLP-1s improve body composition and decrease fat mass on the tongue. The results of improving lipid profiles are mixed.
Implications for Practice: For patients with PCOS, GLP-1s should be discussed as a treatment option due to their significant benefits in managing symptoms and reducing health comorbidities. Patients should be educated on the contraindications, possible side effects, and the importance of a healthy diet, strength training, and frequent follow-up while on the medication.
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Bethany A., "The Benefits of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Agonists in Adult Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome" (2026). Nursing Capstones. 391.
https://commons.und.edu/nurs-capstones/391