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The Muasher Center
for Fertility and IVF
8501 Arlington Boulevard, Suite 500
Fairfax, Virginia 22031

Ph. 703.876.6311
Fx. 703.876.6317

PCOS and Metformin (Glucophage)

Metformin is currently being used to induce ovulation in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Metformin is an insulin sensitizing drug originally used in the treatment of diabetes. Metformin “reverses” insulin resistance (hyperinsulinemia) thus effectively treating many diabetics.

Up to 40- 70% of patients with PCOS have hyperinsulinemia which leads to excess androgen (male hormones) production by the ovaries and increased production of LH by the pituitary. The body tries to compensate for insulin resistance by the “over production” of insulin. Increased LH levels cause further elevations in androgens. Clinically, this results in ovulatory irregularities, (or anovulation) increased body hair, numerous small ovarian cysts, and a classic “pear shaped” body appearance (obesity; although not always) and long term negative health consequences such as diabetes.

Metformin sensitizes the cells to insulin thus lowering the body’s production of insulin and consequently reducing androgen production. Once androgen production has been normalized ovulation can often resume. Metformin is dosed at 500 mg three times per day and Clomid or FSH may be added if ovulation is not established