metformin couple

 Metformin

Jones Institute researchers studied metformin's effectiveness as an ovulation induction agent in women with polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ). Traditional therapy for polycystic ovarian syndrome has been ovulation induction using Clomid ( clomiphene citrate ) as a first line agent.

Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ) is a common disorder with a prevalence rate of 3 - 7% in the general population and as high as 20% in the infertile population. PCOS affects five million women in the United States and is the most common cause of female infertility. PCOS is characterized by hyperandrogenemia and hyperinsulinemia ( raised levels of androgens and insulin resistance ).

Chronic hyperinsulinemia leads to overproduction of ovarian androgens ( male
hormones ) including testosterone. The high levels of androgens lead to chronic anovulation ( lack of ovulation ), menstrual disturbances, and hirsuitism
( excessive body hair growth ).

Due to the relationship between elevated insulin levels and insulin resistance, metformin ( Glucophage ) is used to establish ovulation in PCOS patients. Other similar medications, such as Avandia, are being studied at the Jones Institute.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that women with polycystic ovarian syndrome had increased rates of ovulation when placed on medications that lower insulin levels ( metformin ). Of the women taking metformin, 34% achieved spontaneous ovulation without ovulation induction agents, compared to 4% in the placebo control group. Of those women who did not ovulate on metformin, 90% ovulated with 50 mg of Clomid, compared with three of 26 women ( 8% ) in the placebo group.

Metformin for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome is an attractive alternative due to its low cost, minimal side effects, and decreased risk for multiple pregnancies compared to other agents. Metformin can be used alone or with other fertility medicines such as Clomid or injectable fertility hormones.

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