Normalization of testosterone levels using a low estrogen-containing oral contraceptive in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Oral contraceptives reduce the elevated androgen levels in polycystic ovary disease. However, treatment with oral contraceptives is associated with undesirable side effects because of their high estrogen content. This study was undertaken to examine the effects of low estrogen-containing oral contraceptive (Loestrin:norethindrone acetate 1.5 mg and ethinyl estradiol 30 micrograms) on 25 women with polycystic ovary disease of ovarian origin. Loestrin treatment normalized the elevated luteinizing hormone and total and unbound testosterone levels and increased testosterone binding globulin levels. In a time-course study, unbound testosterone declined within a week of initiating treatment and by 12 to 16 weeks was completely normal. Reduction in hair growth and improvement in complexion were noted by about 12 to 16 weeks. Side effects of treatment were minimal.