How is insulin resistance typically managed in PCOS?

How is insulin resistance typically managed in PCOS?

• A. Metformin to improve insulin sensitivity
• B. Insulin injections
• C. Sulfonylureas
• D. Fasting glucose monitoring only

Answer: (A)

Insulin resistance in PCOS is best addressed with metformin because it directly improves how the body uses insulin, especially by decreasing liver glucose production and increasing peripheral insulin sensitivity. This reduction in insulin levels helps lower ovarian androgen production, which can improve ovulation and menstrual regularity, and it can support modest weight management. Lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, are also important, but metformin is the standard pharmacologic choice for tackling the insulin resistance seen in PCOS. Insulin injections aren’t typically used for PCOS unless there’s another condition like diabetes requiring them, so they don’t target the underlying insulin resistance in PCOS. Sulfonylureas stimulate more insulin release rather than improving sensitivity, which can worsen weight and metabolic issues in PCOS. Fasting glucose monitoring alone doesn’t treat insulin resistance; it only tracks glucose levels.

Insulin resistance in PCOS is best addressed with metformin because it directly improves how the body uses insulin, especially by decreasing liver glucose production and increasing peripheral insulin sensitivity. This reduction in insulin levels helps lower ovarian androgen production, which can improve ovulation and menstrual regularity, and it can support modest weight management. Lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, are also important, but metformin is the standard pharmacologic choice for tackling the insulin resistance seen in PCOS.

Insulin injections aren’t typically used for PCOS unless there’s another condition like diabetes requiring them, so they don’t target the underlying insulin resistance in PCOS. Sulfonylureas stimulate more insulin release rather than improving sensitivity, which can worsen weight and metabolic issues in PCOS. Fasting glucose monitoring alone doesn’t treat insulin resistance; it only tracks glucose levels.