The use of oral antidiabetic drugs in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age. It is a complex metabolic-endocrine disorder with severe long-term health consequences like type 2 diabetes. The increased risk for cardiovascular diseases in women with PCOS is due to diabetes, adipositas and dyslipidemia. Insulin resistance plays a key role in the pathophysiology of this syndrome. This makes the use of oral antidiabetic drugs most compelling. The majority of studies have shown amelioration of the typical symptoms like hyperandrogenism and cycle irregularities. Ovulation and pregnancy rates increased. Furthermore these drugs might be cardioprotective by improving insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes. This article reviews the use of different oral antidiabetic drugs in the treatment of PCOS and their influence on fertility, the risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.