Homocysteine and steroids levels in metformin treated women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Summary

Risk for atherosclerosis is increased in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Homocysteine (Hcy) is one of the independent risk factors for ischemic heart disease. We examined the effect of metformin (M) treatment on Hcy levels, steroids and glycide tolerance in PCOS. Material and methods: 9 women with PCOS (defined as hyperandrogenemia and chronic anovulation); age 20 ± 3.8 yrs, BMI 28.1 ± 6.5 kg/m²; examined in the follicular phase of spontaneous menstrual cycle before and after 27 ± 4 weeks of treatment with M 1000 mg/day. The plasma concentrations of Hcy, DHEA, DHEA-S, cortisol (F), allopregnanolone (HPO), 17OHpregnenolone (17OHPl), insulin (I) and blood glucose (G) before and after the course of M were measured. Results: After the course of M, Hcy significantly increased (10.1 ± 2.6 to 13.4 ± 5.1 μmol/l, p < 0.05.). There was no significant change in levels of I, HPO, F, DHEA-S and 17OHPl. DHEA levels increased significantly (from 26.9 ± 15.7 to 44.4 ± 24.6 nmol/l, p < 0.05). A borderline significant trend towards reduction in waist-hip ratio was seen (from 0.986 ± 0.042 to 0.951 ± 0.085; p < 0.06). Conclusions: Treatment with metformin in women with PCOS can lead to the increase in homocysteine levels - a risk factor for atherosclerosis.

Key words:

Polycystic ovary syndrome - Metformin - Homocysteine

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