Title : Effects of metformin on symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome among women of reproductive age
Abstract:
Metformin is a highly preferred drug that is used to treat the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome among women. Pakistan is facing a continuous rise in the prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Therefore, the determination of the effectiveness of the drug in this condition is considered ideal as per the presenting situation. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of metformin in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. This cross-sectional study has investigated the influence of metformin on the ability to conceive, body weight, mood swings, energy levels, menstrual irregularities, and acne and hirsutism. As per the inclusion criteria, 100 women were evaluated from the outpatient clinics of Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre and Civil Centre, Karachi, from November 2016 to January 2017. A structured, pre-tested questionnaire was used for data collection. The study group had a mean age of 27.2 ± 4.75 years. Outcomes reported by study participants suggested a significant influence of metformin on menstrual irregularities (p 0.046), acne and hirsutism (p<0.001), mood swings (p<0.001), and daily energy levels (p<0.001). Findings further proposed that metformin does not produce a significant impact on the ability to conceive (p 0.096) and in the change in body weight (p 0.073) of the patients. Metformin has been realized to have a significant role in dealing with the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome. It is recommended to conduct more in-depth and longitudinal research on the long-term effects of the drug and compliance among these women.
Audience Take Away:
- Discuss the impact of cosmetic symptoms including hirsutism associated with PCOS on the quality of life of young female patients.
- Discuss the current medical therapy and recent advancements in effective control of PCOS symptoms.
- Highlight challenges associated with conducting women’s health research in a conservative cultural society.
- Discuss factors that affect compliance to medical therapy including social, economic and cultural influences.
- Highlight the need for future research projects to identify long term effects on infertility and menstrual irregularities with PCOS.
