Physicians advise PCOS treatment

Frequently asked questions concern metformin and how it can be used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome.

What is it, then, and how can it be of assistance?

Let’s find out…

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a collection of signs and symptoms that frequently point to a wide range of additional underlying conditions. Obesity, Hirsutism (unusual hair growth), infertility, and irregular menstrual cycles are a few of them. Other ones include higher levels of androgens and insulin. The majority of medications given to PCOS patients treat the symptoms in an effort to lessen the syndrome’s overall impact.

For the treatment of PCOS, many physicians prescribe Metformin. It is currently one of the medications used most frequently to treat PCOS. However, it was developed as a drug to treat diabetes and has been in use for more than 30 years. For many women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Metformin use has proven to be very effective despite being a relatively new practice.

Metformin works by promoting the body’s improved insulin utilisation. It enhances glucose absorption by the body’s cells and regulates the liver’s excessive glucose production. Insulin resistance is reduced as a result. Patients with PCOS frequently have hyperinsulinemia or insulin resistance. In light of this, metformin may be effective in reducing the effects of these two conditions, thereby reducing many of the negative effects of PCOS. Because obese women with PCOS frequently struggle to lose weight, Metformin is especially beneficial for them.

Metformin’s long-term use also reduces the risk of diabetes and heart disease, both of which are quite common in PCOS patients. Metformin, when taken alone, is said to have no effect on lowering blood sugar levels. It only functions effectively when used in conjunction with other anti-diabetic medications. Both dietary changes and exercise are crucial.

Increased androgen (male hormone) levels have also been linked to excessive insulin levels in the body. Therefore, Metformin for PCOS treatment also aids in regulating androgen levels. Due to malfunctioning ovaries that either do not ovulate or ovulate irregularly as a result of the impact of excess androgens, PCOS patients experience infertility. By regulating insulin production, metformin aids in lowering androgen levels and aids in reestablishing ovulation. Infertility brought on by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can thus be effectively treated with Metformin. Although there is a general consensus that it is safe to consume during pregnancy, there isn’t enough evidence to fully confirm this. Always seek advice from a GYN physician.

Long-term use of metformin can help control hirsutism due to its effects on androgen levels, though it is not prescribed for this purpose specifically.

Although there have not been any significant risk factors associated with metformin, a few side effects do happen in 20% to 30% of cases. Here are the most common to consider:

Nausea

Diarrhea

Cramping

Flatulence

Abdominal discomfort

Usually, after taking Metformin for a few weeks, these side effects go away.

To lessen the likelihood of side effects, the dosage of Metformin for PCOS is only raised gradually. Once a day, a dose of 500 mg is typically started, and as needed, the dose is gradually increased to higher doses.

Lactic acidosis is an uncommon side effect of metformin.

When recommending metformin for PCOS, there are a few contraindications to take into account. It should not be prescribed to patients with:

Kidney damage

Severe liver disease

Alcoholism

It is possible to buy generic metformin over the counter. However, it is always advisable to seek medical advice before using this medication, as with all medications. The patient must visit the doctor frequently while taking Metformin, adhere to all instructions, and be aware of any changes or side effects they may encounter.