Does metformin induce ovulation in normoandrogenic anovulatory women?
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of metformin in women with anovulation who do not have evidence for hyperandrogenism and classic polycystic ovary syndrome.
STUDY DESIGN: A randomized trial of metformin (1500 mg daily) and placebo in 24 anovulatory women was undertaken for 3 months. Assessments of changes in hormone levels and insulin sensitivity were carried out. Abnormal hormonal values were defined by levels exceeding the range in normal ovulatory controls.
RESULTS: Anovulatory women had normal androgen levels and luteinizing hormone but had higher serum insulin and lower insulin sensitivity compared with controls. Over 3 months, there were 16 ovulatory cycles with metformin and only 4 with placebo ( P < .05). Success of ovulation did not correlate with changes in androgen, insulin, or insulin sensitivity parameters.
CONCLUSION: Metformin may be useful for inducing ovulation in anovulatory women who do not have hyperandrogenism. This effect may be independent of a lowering of androgen or insulin levels.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 24 participants or records.
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