The effect of metaformin treatment on insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women in reproductive age. It is defined as a syndrome of ovarian dysfunction associated with hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovary morphology, give rise to continuous follicular growth. Insulin resistance (IR) is characterized by impaired glucose response to particular concentration of insulin. The aim of this study was to find if there is an association between PCOS and IR in Sebha region, Libya, and to determine the effect of using metaformin treatment in these women. Samples were collected from a clinic of infertility, Sebha, Libya. Questionnaire was filled for all volunteers including information about treatment by metaformin. A total of 44 women were recruited. 19 healthy women and 25 diagnosed PCOS conditions with matched age and body mass index (BMI). At least two of the following three features were present for PCOS:  polycystic ovaries on ultrasound, oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea and clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism. Age, weight and height were taken. Serum Insulin concentrations were estimated by using ELISA kit and plasma glucose levels was measured spectrophotometrically by glucose oxidase-peroxidase method. Body Mass Index (BMI) and Homeostatic Model Assessment- Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) were calculated by their formulas. The results showed PCOS patients had significantly higher values of fasting serum insulin levels and HOMA-IR. No significant difference between fasting plasma glucose which was in the normal range in both groups. Significantly lower insulin concentration and HOMA-IR in group using the metaformin treatment.  In conclusion this study illustrated a strong association of PCOS with insulin resistance. The treatment by metaformin has positive effect on hyperinsulinaemia.