Fertility Drugs- Metformin
Polycystic ovarian
syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of infertility
in women. It is characterized by elevated levels of
androgens and ovaries with numerous cystic follicles.
Androgens are male hormones, such as testosterone,
that cause the conditions seen in the PCOS patient
such as anovulation, excess body hair, a classic pear
shaped body appearance, and being overweight (sometimes).
Most patients with PCOS have elevated
insulin levels a, condition know as hyperinsulinemia.
The body's cells do not correctly measure the levels
of circulating insulin and consequently overproduce
it. Hyperinsulinemia leads to excess androgen and
LH production by the ovaries. (Physiology)
Metformin (Glucophage) is an "insulin sensitizing agent" used in the treatment of diabetes. In other words, it helps correct the cells "misreading" of insulin  levels and reverses insulin resistance.
Once the insulin resistance is corrected
in the PCOS patient, the levels
of androgens and LH decrease and normal ovulation
can naturally resume. Metformin is often effective
as sole therapy in inducing ovulation in anovulatory
PCOS patients.
Some reproductive endocrinologists are recommending long-term therapy with metformin in PCOS patients. Continued administration can reduce other health risks associated with hyperinsulinemia such as cardiovascular disease.
If ovulation does not occur with metformin
alone, Clomid or FSH
can be added. The major side effects include nausea
and diarrhea.
Other Fertility Drugs
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