The role of metformin in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Hyperinsulinemia is believed to be a key link in the enigmatic generation of the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which include anovulatory infertility and the skin stigmata induced by hyperandrogenism. Regression of these symptoms may be achieved by reducing the hyperinsulinemia. Metformin, an insulin-sensitizing agent, has been proven to be of clinical usefulness both in the short-term aiding of infertility treatments and, potentially, in the prevention of the long-term sequelae for patients with PCOS.