World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

A REVIEW ON POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME AND USE OF METFORMIN IN POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

Ch. O. V. Nagateja*, V. Priyanka and E. Jajili

ABSTRACT

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive-endocrine disorder in women, characterised by anovulation, infertility, and hyperandrogenism, with clinical manifestations of irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism, and acne. Insulin resistance (IR) is believed by many to be pivotal in the pathogenesis of PCOS and that treatment strategies should revolve around reducing the IR and hyperinsulinaemia. Increased insulin levels contribute to excess androgen production and decreases hepatic SHBG synthesis results in increased circulating testosterone levels. The current therapy aims to improve insulin-resistance, which reduces compensatory hyperinsulinemia and then improve metabolic and ovulatory features in patients with PCOS. Metformin, a biguanide, is an antihyperglycemic agent decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Velazquez and colleagues reported in an observational study that most of the metabolic abnormalities of PCOS can be reversed by Metformin, with the additional benefits such as allowing regular menstrual cycles, reversal of infertility, and spontaneous pregnancy.

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