Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a condition that is caused by a hormonal imbalance in the female body. Women have a delicate balance of hormones that are needed to regulate the menstrual cycle. When these hormones become imbalanced, the menstrual cycle and the rest of the body are affected. One treatment for polycystic ovarian syndrome is a medication known as glyburide.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Pathology
Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is marked by increased levels of androgen hormones, which include testosterone, by the ovaries. The increased androgen levels prevent eggs in the ovaries from fully maturing, causing multiple cysts to appear as a result of abnormal ovary follicle development, the Hormone Foundation says. Women with PCOS may gain weight, have irregular menstrual cycles, develop increased body and facial hair, have the hair on their scalp thin and experience changes in their skin's appearance.
PCOS and Insulin
Although doctors do not fully understand what causes polycystic ovarian syndrome, elevated levels of insulin may play a role, the National Women's Health Center says. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps the body use glucose in the blood. Many women with polycystic ovarian syndrome have a high insulin level, which is often caused by being obese. High insulin levels can be caused by the body not being able to respond well to insulin.
Glyburide
Glyburide is a medication which is often prescribed for type 2 diabetes, Pubmed Health explains. Glyburides help the pancreas secrete more insulin, but they also sensitize the body to insulin's effects, which means that insulin levels can drop over time. Because glyburide is able to help the body respond more effectively to insulin, it may be used as a treatment for polycystic ovarian syndrome, particularly in women with high insulin levels.
Effectiveness
According to UpToDate, there are some situations in which medications, such as glyburide, which are normally used for diabetes may be recommended for women with PCOS. For example, one way PCOS is treated is with birth control pills, which can help restore the regularity of the menstrual cycle. Women who cannot take birth control pills may benefit from medications such as glyburide. Glyburide can also make it easier for obese women with PCOS to lose weight.
