Interaction of opioid and sympathetic nervous system in PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogenous endocrinal disorder that affects women in their reproductive age. PCOS is an important risk factor for CVD, DM and endometrial cancer. Sympathetic nervous system is very important in the etiology of PCOS and regulation of ovarian physiology. Hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, stress and opioid β endorphin release are associated with PCOS. Endogenous opioids (β endorphin) are inhibitory neurotransmitters. PCOS is related to the peripheral and central factors e.g. opioid peptide β endorphin which influences sympathetic nervous system. In PCOS opioid system is dysregulated and this cause abnormality in reproductive and metabolic hormones. High opioid tone is found in PCO women. High opioid activity is suppressed by the antagonist Naloxone or Naltrexone. Yohimbine is antagonist of sympathetic nervous system and decreases sympathetic activity and reduces PCOS. Naloxone, Yohimbine and their combined therapy was very effective and cause reduction in PCOS.