EFFECTS OF DECREASED HYPERINSULINEMIA ON THE OVULATORY RESPONSE TO CLOMIPHENE

University Of Virginia Charlottesville, Charlottesville VA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

This is a study of the effects of reducing insulin concentrations on ovulation while taking the medication, clomiphene citrate. Insulin concentrations will be reduced using the medication, metformin. We know that many women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) do not ovulate spontaneously and often do not respond well to a drug commonly used to induce ovulation known as clomiphene citrate. We also know that many women with polycystic ovary syndrome have elevated insulin concentrations in their blood. If insulin levels are reduced with diet and exercise, women with PCOS often begin to ovulate spontaneously. However, many women with PCOS find it very difficult to lose enough weight and/or exercise enough to lower their insulin levels. Metformin is a drug that has been shown to lower insulin levels and, therefore, may prove to be useful in treating women with the polycystic ovary syndrome who desire fertility. We hope to learn whether women with the polycystic ovary syndrome and who have failed to ovulate in response to conventional doses of clomiphene citrate will have a higher rate of clomiphene citrate-stimulated ovulation when serum insulin levels are reduced.