Effects of metformin on body weight in polycystic ovary syndrome patients: model-based meta-analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives The present study aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on body weight in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients by model-based meta-analysis (MBMA). Methods Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies of metformin in treatment of PCOS patients were collected and efficacy indicators were the body mass index (BMI) change rates from baseline. Results 28 RCT studies, 1631 PCOS patients were included for analysis. Model of metformin monotherapy, and model of metformin combination therapy were established, respectively. After deducting control group effects, the Emax of metformin on BMI were −5.88% and −11.8% in metformin monotherapy and metformin combination therapy, respectively. In order to play better curative effects, for metformin monotherapy, 1000 mg/day metformin needs for at least 25.5 weeks; For metformin combination therapy, 1000 mg/day metformin needs for at least 58.6 weeks. Conclusion It was the first time to quantify the effects of metformin on body weight and recommend dose and duration for metformin monotherapy and metformin combination therapy in PCOS patients.