About Metformin
for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common endocrine disease among women of child-bearing age. Metformin is the drug most widely prescribed to treat the condition. PCOS is one of the most the most common causes of infertility in women. Once diagnosed, the condition responds to treatment. Other drugs used in the treatment are rosiglitazone and pioglitazone. Earlier treatments included surgery, weight-loss diets and birth control pills.
Symptoms
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is characterized by enlarged ovaries containing many small follicles. The absence of menstrual periods, or irregular periods, an increase in facial or body hair, discoloration of the skin, obesity and acne are the most noticeable symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Less readily apparent symptoms are elevated male hormone levels. The disease can be a risk factor for heart disease, type II diabetes and stroke.
Factors
Most medical professionals agree that there is a hereditary component in the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome. There is less agreement on the influence of insulin resistance on the condition. Insulin resistance, or hyperinsulinemia, is the probable cause of the increase in male hormones. The disease is hard to diagnose, and since polycystic ovarian syndrome can cause anxiety and depression, and occurs in women, some doctors fail to properly recognize the condition.
Metformin Treatment
Metformin, also known as Glucophage, is commonly used in the treatment of type II diabetes. It is not FDA approved for use in the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome, but it has been successful in treating the condition. A two-hour insulin and glucose tolerance test is given before starting Metformin. The usual starting dose is 500 mg daily, which is increased to twice a day and then increased to 850 mg twice a day. The increase in dosage depends on how well tolerated the drug is. While type II diabetics can take a slow release version of Metformin, it does not have the same effect in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. A patient with PCOS responds better to the Metformin if the treatment is spread out throughout the day.
Side Effects
The most common side effects patients experience when starting Metformin are upset stomach and diarrhea. These symptoms can be alleviated by taking the medicine with a meal. Other symptoms are headache, weakness, intestinal gas and abdominal pain. A rare side effect is lactic acidosis, which can be fatal. Symptoms of lactic acidosis are muscle pain, dizziness, trouble breathing and a slowed or irregular heartbeat. Contact your doctor immediately if you have signs of lactic acidosis.
Metformin With Other Treatments
Metformin can successfully be used in combination with other drugs like pioglitazone and rosiglitazone. The success of Metformin treatment increases when patients follow a healthy diet. Since obesity is a common symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome, many doctors pair their patients with a nutritionist. Regular exercise aids in weight loss and improves general health. Quitting smoking reduces the risks of complications of the condition like heart disease and diabetes.
