Effect of Metformin Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract: 

Proceeding from the key role of hyperinsulinemia in the etiopathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome, a series of women affected with the condition undergo treatment with Metformin. A one-year prospective study covering 30 women is conducted to evaluate the effect of Metformin administration with a special reference to a number of clinical and hormonal indicators, namely: BMI, WHR, IRI, testosterone, LH, LH/FSH ratio. As shown by analysis of the results there is a decrease in absolute values of BMI, WHR, and a tendency for adipose tissue redistribution from visceral to gynoid type. The vaues of LH and LH/FSH ratio are statisticaly significantly reduced. Immunoreactive insulin and testosterone levels show a clearcut decrease at each stage of study. A favourable responce in a varying degree in terms of menstrual cyclicity is noted in 28 patients. Positive results are also recorded with a reference to arterial hypertension and hirsutism. Presumably, Metformin is a good alternative to the standard therapeutic approach to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Keywords: polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin, resistance, Metformin.

Download the full issue 1/2002