An evaluation of the available pharmacotherapy for the treatment of hirsutism.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (OCP) are recommended as first-line therapy. The addition of oral antiandrogens can be combined for severe cases. Antiandrogens and OCPs have been demonstrated to be the most effective pharmacotherapy available in improving hirsutism. Greater insight is being achieved in the use of antiandrogens and their role in managing hyperandrogenism states such as hirsutism. Insulin sensitizers such as metformin are found to be the least effective. Medical treatments for hirsutism often need to be combined with physical therapies for optimal management. Psychological support should be considered in patients with associated psychosocial morbidity.