Safety And Efficacy of Vitex Agnus Castus Extract In Patients With Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome:A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. The evidence of use of herbal and alternative therapies to alleviate PCOS symptoms are minimal. The aim of the study was therefore to investigate the safety and efficacy of Vitex Agnus Castus (VAC) extract in Pakistani women with ovulatory dysfunction such as PMOS.

Methods: This prospective study enrolled 100 PMOS patients with oligomenorrhea at Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore. The patients received Ovitex Tablet containing 40 mg of VAC extract, once daily for three months. The efficacy profile was primarily examined based on the length of menstrual cycle and number of ovarian follicles.

The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone, LH/FSH ratio, body weight and body mass index (BMI) were determined as the secondary outcomes. 

Results: The results showed decrease in the length of menstrual cycle at week 12 compared to baseline (62.23 ± 12.16 to 51.40 ± 13.98; P < 0.001). Levels of LH, FSH, and total testosterone and LH/FSH ratio were not significantly altered compared to baseline at the end of treatment. No serious adverse events were reported during the study. 

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that VAC administration for 3 months improved oligomenorrhea related to PMOS and moderately reduced levels of FSH and LH. However, reduction in body weight could not be achieved.