A Subgroup Analysis of Effect of Metformin in Indian Women with PCOS.

ABSTRACT

To analyze the variations in effects of metformin on ovarian function in different subgroups of Indian women with PCOS. Sixty PCOS patients were divided into treatment (metformin 500mg TDS for 2 months) and placebo groups. Parameters were assessed at baseline and after 2 months. Patients in the metformin group were further divided into subgroups according to the Body Mass Index (BMI), Serum Insulin and Serum Testosterone levels. Statistical analysis was done by Wilcoxan's Rank Sum test and paired t test. In subgroup analysis, obese patients (BMI>30 kg/m2) had more severe abnormalities. Hyperinsulinemic patients (S.Insulin > 25 μIU/ml) had far better response to metformin than normoinsulinemic patients. Hyperandrogenic patients (S. Testosterone > 2pg/ml) responded poorly as compared to normoandrogenic patients. Patients with high insulin levels and low testosterone levels are better responders to metformin. Obesity also has implications on PCOS. Further studies are required to assess the effect of these parameters on treatment of PCOS.