Polycystic ovary syndrome a common hormonal disorder that affects one in 10 women. Women with this condition often display several symptoms that require medication to treat such as irregular menstrual cycles, anovulation and insulin resistance. Some of these symptoms can be treated by dietary modifications and exercise, however a physician may suggest taking medication in order to reduce the risks of complication that may arise from PCOS.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a metabolic disorder that affects women of reproductive age. This condition is marked by an increased insulin level and an over-secretion of the luteinizing hormone that results in an increased production of androgens -- male hormone -- from the ovaries. Women with this condition often have facial hair, polycystic ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles and some may be overweight. Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing type-2 diabetes due to the high level of insulin in their blood.
Medications for Fertility
Women who have this condition may have problems getting pregnant due to a lack of ovulation. Granted there are no other issues such as blocked fallopian tubes, a doctor can induce ovulation by way of medication such as Clomid, letrozole, injectable follicle-stimulating hormones and bromocriptine. The medications induce ovulation by stimulating the ovaries to produce several eggs. Following this initial treatment, the doctor will prescribe injectable medications used to mature the eggs. In the last stage of this process, the doctor will give an injection of HCG hormone used to induce a timed ovulation.
Medication for Insulin Control
Women with PCOS have markedly high insulin levels, which makes them more likely to develop diabetes. For this reason, some physicians prescribe a medication called metformin, which works to prevent it. Metformin works to regulate glucose levels and it makes the body more insulin sensitive. In addition, metformin reduces the amount of glucose releases from the liver. This medication is give in pill form and is usually take 2 to 3 times a day.
Medications for Weight Loss
Women with PCOS may find it hard losing weight using conventional methods and may have to be prescribed medication to aid them in weight loss. Metformin -- used to prevent and treat type-2 diabetes -- may be prescribed to help women with PCOS lose weight. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, young women who take metformin in combination with eating a low-glycemic index diet and exercising regularly were able to lose weight and lower their fasting glucose levels.
