Insulin Resistance - How Does Metformin Help Those With PCOS?

A good number of women with PCOS have weight issues (are overweight, have gained a large amount of weight in a short amount of time). For some reason, despite their diet and exercise program, they STILL gain weight and find it incredibly difficult to lose weight at all. This is caused by something called Insulin resistance. This is a condition where large amounts of insulin are required to get blood glucose moved into the cells. Insulin resistance can lead to weight problems, irregular cycles/Infertility, heart disease, diabetes and some cancers, and is more often a woman's health concern rather than men's. The most commonly used medication to treat insulin resistance is Metformin (also known as Glucophage, or Glucophage XR)

Metformin helps regulate your insulin levels. Studies have also shown that Metformin can help reduce excess facial hair, induce ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles.

Some pros of Metformin include: (note, not all women who take Metformin will experience these benefits, everyone reacts differently to the medication):

• Improved chance of ovulation 

• Reduction of excess facial/body hair 

• Regulation of cycle 

• Delays the onset of Adult Diabetes 

• Reduce your chances of Gestational Diabetes (Diabetes during pregnancy) 

• Reduces your chance of miscarriage (PCOS'ers have an increased rate of miscarriage) 

• Weight loss (with a healthy diet and exercise)

The Cons of Metformin use:

• Most patients complain of strong gastrointestinal side affects (stomach cramping, diarrhea, gas, bloating, nausea and vomiting) 

• It has also been that Metformin may increase homocysteine levels (these are amino acids found in the blood), which puts one at risk for atherosclerosis (or fatty deposits in blood vessels). 

• The long term use of Metformin can cause B12 malabsorbtion, which can lead to anemia 

• Lactic Acidosis: Lactic acid is a metabolic byproduct that can become toxic if it builds up faster than it is removed. It is extremely serious and can be fatal. The symptoms are rapid breathing, irregular pulse, feeling weak, drowsiness, and muscle pain. (If you are taking Metformin and have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Those with pre-existing conditions should speak to their doctor before starting Metformin. If you have liver, or kidney conditions, or you drink alcohol you should not take Metformin as this can increase the chances of Lactic Acidosis.

Again, it is up to you and your doctor to review the benefits and side affects of all medications (don't be afraid to ask A LOT of questions!). Then you and your health provider (whether it be a Primary, OB/GYN or RE) can determine the best treatment method for your situation.

Do your own research!! It is in your best interest to research the drug (any drug!) before putting it into your body, ESPECIALLY if you have pre-existing conditions.

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