Medication for PCOS: Clarifying Your Prescription Concerns

Medication Inquiry

Hello, Doctor.
I have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and have irregular menstrual cycles, so I regularly obtain medication from the hospital.
In July, my period was delayed, and after checking at the hospital, the doctor advised me to take a pregnancy test on Saturday (I saw the doctor on Wednesday, August 7, and the doctor informed me that I had just ovulated a few days prior, with intercourse on August 4, so I should wait until Saturday to test).
The doctor said if the pregnancy test result is negative, it would just be a delayed period.
Today, on August 17, I took the pregnancy test, and it showed negative.
I am preparing to take the medication, but I noticed that the doctor prescribed the following medications:
1.
Medrol (A703) - take three times a day for five days
2.
Ergometrine (M077) - take three times a day for five days
However, I remember that the second medication is used to stop bleeding rather than for regulating menstrual cycles (I have not taken any other medication for cycle regulation in the past).
Did the doctor prescribe incorrectly? If it was a mistake, can I just take the first medication? Or should I take both? Will this have any effect on regulating my menstrual cycle? Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to respond.

Xiao Mi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I have polycystic ovary syndrome and irregular menstruation, so I regularly obtain medication from the hospital.
In July, my period was delayed, and after an examination at the hospital, the doctor advised me to take a pregnancy test on Saturday (I saw the doctor on Wednesday, August 7, and the doctor informed me that I had just ovulated a few days prior, with intercourse on August 4, so I should wait until Saturday to test).
The doctor said that if the pregnancy test result was negative, it would just indicate a delayed period.
Today, August 17, I took the pregnancy test, and it showed negative.
I am preparing to take the medication and noticed that the doctor prescribed the following medications:
1.
Medrone (A703) - take three times a day for five days
2.
Ergometrine (M077) - take three times a day for five days
However, I remember that the second medication is used to stop bleeding rather than for regulating menstruation (I have never had a second medication for menstrual regulation before).
Did the doctor prescribe incorrectly? If it was a mistake, can I just take the first medication? Or should I take both? Will this have a menstrual regulation effect?
Answer: You can directly ask your physician.

Reply Date: 2019/08/17

More Info

When it comes to managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), understanding the medications prescribed is crucial for effective treatment and symptom management. In your case, you have been prescribed two medications: Medrone (A703) and Ergometrine (M077). Let's break down these medications and their intended uses, as well as address your concerns regarding their appropriateness for your condition.

Medrone (A703) is a corticosteroid that is often used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. While it is not a primary treatment for PCOS, it may be prescribed in certain situations where inflammation is a concern or if there are other underlying conditions that require corticosteroid therapy. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and duration of this medication.

Ergometrine (M077), on the other hand, is primarily used to manage postpartum hemorrhage and to induce contractions in the uterus. It is not typically used as a first-line treatment for menstrual irregularities or to regulate cycles in women with PCOS. Your concern about this medication being used for stopping bleeding rather than regulating menstrual cycles is valid.
Given your situation, where you have experienced a delay in your menstrual cycle and have received a negative pregnancy test, it is essential to clarify the purpose of these medications with your healthcare provider. It is possible that the doctor prescribed Ergometrine to address any potential bleeding issues or to help induce a menstrual cycle, but this is not a common approach for PCOS management.

Should you take both medications? It is crucial to consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen. If you feel uncertain about the appropriateness of Ergometrine for your condition, it is best to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide clarity on why this medication was prescribed and whether it is necessary for your treatment plan.
Regarding the effectiveness of these medications for regulating your menstrual cycle: Medrone may have some indirect effects on your hormonal balance, but it is not specifically aimed at treating the underlying causes of PCOS. Ergometrine, while it may induce contractions, does not address the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS. Therefore, relying solely on these medications may not yield the desired results in regulating your menstrual cycle.

Additional Considerations: PCOS is a complex condition that often requires a multifaceted approach to treatment. This may include lifestyle modifications such as weight management, dietary changes, and exercise, in addition to pharmacological interventions. Medications commonly used for PCOS include hormonal contraceptives (like birth control pills) to regulate menstrual cycles, anti-androgens to manage symptoms like hirsutism, and insulin-sensitizing agents like Metformin.

In conclusion, it is essential to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider regarding your treatment plan for PCOS. If you have concerns about the medications prescribed, do not hesitate to ask for clarification or express your worries. Your health and well-being should always be the priority, and your doctor can help tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

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