Targeting insulin sensitivity in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome

Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2009 Oct;13(10):1205-26. doi: 10.1517/14728220903190699.

Abstract

Targeting insulin resistance may result in a list of benefits for women with PCOS, including hormonal, metabolic and ovulatory (and fertility) improvements. The therapeutic strategy to treat PCOS should however depend on the clinical situation, the phenotype, the degree of androgen excess, age, the presence of infertility and the woman's desire to conceive, the presence of obesity and, finally, the spectrum of metabolic abnormalities and the need to treat or prevent long-term associated comorbidities. According to the needs, therapeutic options include, alone or in combination, lifestyle management, particularly in the presence of obesity, the use of insulin sensitizers, metformin and thiazolidinediones, antiandrogens or estro-progestins.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Glucose / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Insulin Resistance / physiology*
  • Obesity
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / metabolism

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Glucose