Metformin reduces serum mullerian-inhibiting substance levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome after protracted treatment

Fleming, R., Harborne, L., MacLaughlin, D., Ling, D., Norman, J., Sattar, N. and Seifer, D. (2005) Metformin reduces serum mullerian-inhibiting substance levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome after protracted treatment. Fertility and Sterility, 83(1), pp. 130-136. (doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.05.098)

Abstract

Objective: Assessment of ovarian responses to metformin treatment in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design: Prospective treatment with randomization to two doses of metformin. Setting: University teaching hospital. Patient(s): Obese women (n = 82) with PCOS. Intervention(s): Markers of ovarian function were assessed after 4 and 8 months. Main Outcome Measure(s): Hormone (androgens and mullerian-inhibiting substance [MIS]) changes over time. Result(s): There was no difference in the reproductive hormone changes between the doses of metformin, and data were combined for further analyses. Significant responses to treatment were recorded for menstrual frequency and androstenediona (A) (reduction) within the first 4 months of treatment. However, suppression of the elevated circulation MIS concentrations required protracted treatment, because no change was observed in the first 4 months-only in the second 4-month assessment period. Conclusion(s): Metformin treatment PCOS leads to rapid suppression of A and improved menstrual frequency. Suppression of MIS is a delayed response that may be secondary to the development of a cohort of follicles that underwent initial recruitment in an environment of reduced insulin stimulation. (C)2005 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Sattar, Professor Naveed and Norman, Professor Jane
• Authors: Fleming, R., Harborne, L., MacLaughlin, D., Ling, D., Norman, J., Sattar, N., and Seifer, D.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
• Journal Name: Fertility and Sterility
• ISSN: 0015-0282