HKU study finds diabetes drug may help restore fertility in women with ovarian insufficiency

Research by the University of Hong Kong’s Faculty of Medicine has found that finerenone, a drug commonly used to treat chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes, may help promote follicle development and potentially restore fertility in women with premature ovarian insufficiency.

According to the university, premature ovarian insufficiency affects about 1 to 3 percent of women of reproductive age worldwide. The condition is often associated with ovarian fibrosis, which severely restricts follicle growth and leads to infertility.

The research team found that finerenone can effectively reduce ovarian fibrosis and support the maturation of follicles, creating conditions more favorable for egg development.

A clinical trial was launched at the University of Hong Kong–Shenzhen Hospital in 2024. Fourteen women diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency received oral finerenone treatment for up to seven months.

Preliminary results showed that among the eight patients who have so far been assessed, four were able to produce mature eggs. Viable embryos were successfully cultivated in three of the cases.

The researchers said the findings suggest finerenone could offer a viable treatment option for patients with the condition. They also noted that the dosage used in the trial was relatively low, with only mild side effects reported.

Cost was cited as another advantage. During the trial, the monthly cost of the medication for each patient ranged from about HK$100 to HK$200, which the researchers described as affordable.