[Insulin sensitizers in the treatment of polycystic ovary]

Ginecol Obstet Mex. 2005 Jun;73(6):315-27.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Polycystic ovary is characterized by anovulation, hyperandrogenemia and insulin resistance. Hyperinsulinemia is known to be associated with an increase in cardiovascular risk and the development of diabetes mellitus. The finding that insulin resistance has important implications in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian disease has elicit the concept of a therapeutic approach of insulin-sensitizing drugs. Last decade multiple clinical trials about these drugs and upon genesis of polycystic ovary were designed; hence there is now sufficient evidence in the literature to support its clinical use. The management of polycystic ovary includes short-term objectives, such as treatment of infertility and control of androgen excess, as well as long-term considerations, such as prevention of endometrial cancer and management of dysmetabolic syndrome with its associated risk for developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The present review justifies the rationale use of insulin-sensitizing drugs in order to treat both short-term and long-term issues regarding polycystic ovarian disease.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Insulin Resistance*
  • Metformin / therapeutic use
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / complications
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Thiazolidinediones / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Thiazolidinediones
  • Metformin