Glucophage (Metformin) for PCOS

Overview
Glucophage is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help improve blood glucose control in children and adults with type 2 diabetes. Glucophage is considered an adjunct treatment to diet and exercise. Glucophage is also referred to by its drug name, Metformin. In cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Glucophage is sometimes prescribed to combat insulin resistance and promote weight loss and regular menstruation cycles. Since Glucophage is not FDA-approved to treat PCOS, this usage may be considered “off-label.”

Glucophage is in a drug class called biguanides. Glucophage is believed to work by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and making the muscle tissue more sensitive to insulin.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Glucophage is generally taken once or twice a day daily with meals.

Glucophage comes in tablet form.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Glucophage lists common side effects including headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, and upset stomach.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Glucophage include lactic acidosis (when the tissues and blood become too acidic) and systemic allergic reaction.

For more details about this treatment, visit:
Glucophage label (PDF) – Bristol-Myers Squibb
http://packageinserts.bms.com/pi/pi_glucophage_...

Role of metformin in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome - Therapeutic Advances in Endocrinology and Metabolism
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC347...