Author: John E. Nestler

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 17, Number 8, August 2002 , pp. 1950-1953(4)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

Insulin resistance is a prominent feature of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and women with the disorder are at increased risk for the development of other diseases that have been linked to insulin resistance—namely, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This association between insulin resistance and PCOS must guide the chronic management of the disorder, and accumulating evidence suggests that administration of insulin-sensitizing drugs to individuals at high risk for type 2 diabetes decreases the rate of conversion to overt disease. In contrast, limited evidence exists to suggest that oral contraceptive pills—the currently standard therapy for PCOS—may actually decrease insulin sensitivity and induce impaired glucose tolerance in women with PCOS. Hence, PCOS should be regarded as a general health issue and the use of insulin-sensitizing drugs such as metformin should be considered for the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

Keywords: metformin; oral contraceptives; polycystic ovarian syndrome; type 2 diabetes

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA., Email: nestler@hsc.vcu.edu

Publication date: 2002-08-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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