How does metformin help for PCOS?

Should patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome be treated with metformin?: an enthusiastic endorsement. (2002-3543)

Nestler JE.

Division of Endocrinology and metabolism, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.

Nestler@hsc.vcu.edu

Hum Reprod 2002 Aug;17(8):1950-3

Insulin resistance is a prominent feature of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and women with the disorder are at increased risk for the development of other diseases that have been linked to insulin resistance-namely, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This association between insulin resistance and PCOS must guide the chronic management of the disorder, and accumulating evidence suggests that administration of insulin-sensitizing drugs to individuals at high risk for type 2 diabetes decreases the rate of conversion to overt disease. In contrast, limited evidence exists to suggest that oral contraceptive pills-the currently standard therapy for PCOS-may actually decrease insulin sensitivity and induce impaired glucose tolerance in women with PCOS. Hence, PCOS should be regarded as a general health issue and the use of insulin-sensitizing drugs such as metformin should be considered for the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

See Also:

PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

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