Research

Hormonal

Orlistat treatment for 3 months in women with PCOS produces a statistically significant reduction in body weight and serum testosterone levels, with weight loss effects being greater than those observed with metformin.

If you have PCOS and are looking to lose weight and lower testosterone, Orlistat (120mg, 3x daily) may be more effective for weight loss than Metformin over a short 3-month period, while still effectively lowering testosterone. Ensure you follow the dietary changes recommended during the initial 8-week period to maximize results and minimize side effects.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
Treatment with orlistat for 3 months led to a 4.7% reduction in body weight, a more significant loss than was observed in metformin-treated women (1.0%). Serum testosterone levels declined significantly in both groups.
S. Jay Olshansky et al. · Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey · 2005

Why this rating

Randomized, open-label study, but small sample size (n=21) and short duration (3 months).

Source

A Potential Decline in Life Expectancy in the United States in the 21st Century

S. Jay Olshansky et al. · Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey · 2005

DOI 10.1097/01.ogx.0000167407.83915.e7

narrative_reviewCited 1,949×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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