Does metformin improve symptoms and reduce diabetes risk in women with polycystic ovary syndrome?
Metformin is a recommended therapy for managing polycystic ovary syndrome and reducing the risk of diabetes in patients with impaired glucose tolerance.
A 23-year-old woman with the polycystic ovary syndrome presents for evaluation and possible treatment. She has a family history of diabetes, is obese, and has impaired glucose tolerance. Metformin therapy is recommended. Metformin increases insulin sensitivity and may reduce the risk of diabetes. In the polycystic ovary syndrome, long-term metformin treatment may increase ovulation, improve menstrual cyclicity, and reduce serum androgen levels.
John E. Nestler (Thu,) studied this question.