Obesity in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Insulin Sensitizing Therapy

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive endocrine disorder in women that is highly associated with obesity. Whether obesity is intrinsic to the disorder or is a result of different lifestyle and environmental concerns is unclear, however obesity influences the risks of PCOS with respect to fertility complications, pregnancy complications and cardiovascular risk. Polycystic ovary syndrome is known to be associated with insulin resistance in both lean and obese individuals. Insulin resistance in fact is felt to be a key feature in the reproductive and metabolic dysfunction of PCOS. There are numerous studies reporting the benefits of insulin sensitizing therapy, specifically metformin and thiazolidinediones, on the features of PCOS and emerging evidence on the impact of these agents on the risk and management of obesity. Weight loss and maintenance of weight reduction has been seen in women and adolescents treated with metformin therapy. Most studies indicate a synergy of metformin with lifestyle therapy in the general population but there are limited data in PCOS.