DOC News May 1, 2007
Volume 4 Number 5 p. 15
© 2007 American Diabetes Association
Lower Doses of Contraceptives OK With Metformin
Low doses of oral contraceptives are preferable in overweight women with
polycystic ovary syndrome requiring contraception, and metformin should be
considered for symptom management. That's the conclusion from a new Australian
study published recently in Diabetes Care.
The 6-month study examined the comparative clinical efficacy and metabolic
and cardiovascular effects of low and high doses of oral contraceptives and
metformin in 110 overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Participants
were divided into three treatment groups: 37 were treated with metformin, 35
were treated with a higher-dose oral contraceptive, and 38 were treated with a
lower-dose oral contraceptive and spironolactone.
Both low- and high-dose treatments significantly improved symptoms,
including hirsutism and menstrual cycle length. In the high-dose oral
contraceptive group, however, insulin resistance and arterial stiffness
worsened.
A low-dose estrogen preparation is preferable if patients require
contraception, researchers conclude. Treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome
can be achieved by targeting insulin resistance and lifestyle modifications
with metformin, they suggest.
Meyer C, McGrath B, Teede H: Effects of medical therapy on
insulin resistance and the cardiovascular system in polycystic ovary syndrome.
Diabetes Care 30:471–478, 2007.[Abstract/Free Full Text]
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