Metformin or Inositol for PCOS? is it either, or?
You aren’t the first person to ask me this question, Cys. Let’s break it down.
You may already know that PCOS is usually treated with lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and regular exercise, and medication. Two of the most commonly prescribed medications for PCOS are metformin and inositol.
Metformin is a medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin. In women with PCOS, metformin can help to regulate periods, reduce insulin resistance, and lower testosterone levels, which can improve symptoms such as acne and excess hair growth.
Inositol is a naturally occurring nutrient that is found in many foods, including fruits, grains, and nuts. It is often used as a supplement to treat PCOS, as it has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles. Inositol also plays a role in the production of neurotransmitters, which can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
A recent meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted to compare the effectiveness of inositol and metformin in the management of PCOS symptoms. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, analyzed data from 18 studies involving a total of 1,660 women with PCOS.
The meta-analysis found that both inositol and metformin were effective in improving menstrual regularity and reducing insulin resistance. However, inositol was found to be more effective than metformin in reducing total testosterone levels and improving lipid profiles, which are important factors in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The study also found that inositol was better tolerated than metformin, with fewer side effects reported by participants. Side effects of metformin can include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, as well as vitamin B12 deficiency and lactic acidosis in rare cases. In contrast, inositol is generally well tolerated and has few reported side effects.
While the meta-analysis provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of inositol and metformin in managing PCOS symptoms, it is important to note that each individual's response to medication can vary. Some women may find that one medication works better for them than the other, or that a combination of both medications is needed to achieve the desired results.
Can you take inositol and metformin at the same time? Yep. There are no known interactions between inositol and metformin, and the machanism of action (how they work inside the body) is different, so they don’t compete or interfere with one another. If anything, using them together may benefit your blood sugar levels.
It is also important to remember that medication alone is not enough to manage PCOS. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise are essential in managing symptoms and reducing the risk of long-term health complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Both metformin and inositol are effective medications for managing the symptoms of PCOS. While metformin is commonly used to treat insulin resistance and improve menstrual regularity, inositol has been shown to be more effective in reducing testosterone levels and improving lipid profiles.
Note that each individual's response to medication can vary, and that medication alone is not enough to manage PCOS. A holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes is essential in managing symptoms and reducing the risk of long-term health complications.
Need help deciding if Inositol is right for you? I provide individualized supplement recommendations in my 1:1 counseling program! Apply Here!
Sources:
Unfer V, Nestler JE, Kamenov ZA, Prapas N, Facchinetti F. Effects of inositol(s) in women with PCOS: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Feb 18:dgab092. doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgab092. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33605650.