Metformin and PCOS??
Question:
I had a miscarriage when I was 17...(I am now 26) doctor never found out why--later I was diagnosed with PCOS--but, my doctor said my insulin level was good--I have been reading a lot about how Metformin can reduce risk of miscarriage--is that true even if your insulin is okay? I will ask my doctor when I see her next month---I just want to know what your experience is with this drug and PCOS??
Thank You
Answers:
Well I too have PCOS and my friend told me about this site. It has a little of everything from diet information to a forum that helps you. Especially if you have FAQ.
METFORMIN (Glucophage):
When first starting this medication, people will often experience upset stomach or diarrhea which usually resolves after the first week. This side effect can be minimized by taking metformin with a meal and starting with a low dose. I recommend that our patients start with one 500 mg pill daily the first week and increase to twice a day during the second week. If after the second week GI side effects are minimal, the dose is increased to 850 mg twice daily. Surprisingly, we have found that the extended release version, Glucophage XR seems to be associated with less weight loss as compared to the generic preparation. Patients with reduced renal function (creatinine >1.5 or creatinine clearance <60%) are at a higher risk for a rare side effect of metformin therapy called lactic acidosis, and the drug should be given cautiously, if at all, to such patients.
For most women, PCOS is actually caused by insulin resistance. The dark patches of skin like the one on your leg are called acanthosis nigricans, and they can be a symptom of insulin resistance. The pill does not treat insulin resistance. Many women with PCOS take metformin (glucophage) for insulin resistance, and they often find that their PCOS symptoms improve because high levels of insulin are thought to cause the ovaries to produce too many male hormones. Correcting the insulin problem helps to correct their hormone problems. When you are able to see a doctor, you should ask about having a glucose tolerance test or a fasting insulin test to check for insulin resistance. A fasting glucose test (where they just test your blood sugar level) does not detect insulin resistance.
GO TO BARNES AND NOBLE WEBSITE OR STORE AND LOOK FOR A BOOK CALLED
THE INSULIN RESTISTANCE DIET. I lost 40 pounds.
No experience.
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