Insulin and oral antidiabetic agents for treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Abstract

Insulin plays a major role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Insulin resistance and resultant hyperinsulinemia stimulate both the ovary and adrenal to produce androgens. Oral antidiabetic agents have been used to alleviate the symptoms and to induce ovulation in women with PCOS. This review focuses on the relation between insulin and PCOS and discusses the use of oral antidiabetic agents.