Effects of short-term and long-term metformin treatment on menstrual cyclicity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Fertil Steril. 2006 Jul;86(1):230-2. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.12.036. Epub 2006 May 23.

Abstract

The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the frequency of menstrual cyclicity between two groups of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: women who were followed while on metformin for 3-6 months and those who were followed for >6 months. The results showed that metformin is highly effective in normalizing menstrual cyclicity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (the overall response rate was 69%, with 88% of responders achieving normal cyclicity), especially with a treatment duration of 6 months or longer (the response rate was 40% higher for women who were treated with metformin for >6 months vs. 3-6 months, 77% vs. 55%).

Publication types

  • Controlled Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperinsulinism / prevention & control*
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Menstrual Cycle / drug effects*
  • Metformin / administration & dosage*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Women

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Metformin