Acarbose in obese patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

ISSN： 1460-2350

Source： Human Reproduction, Vol.20, Iss.9, 2005-09, pp. : 2396-2401

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: The present study assessed the effects of low-dose acarbose on obese patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: A double-blind placebo-controlled study was conducted on 30 obese hyperinsulinaemic women with PCOS treated with 150 mg/day acarbose or placebo for 6 months. The women were evaluated for hirsutism, menstrual regularity, body mass index (BMI), insulin resistance and glucose tolerance, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), LH, FSH, testosterone and androstenedione, and side-effects. RESULTS: The patients in the acarbose group showed a reduction in BMI (35.87±2.60 versus 33.10±2.94 kg/m²) and in the Ferriman–Gallwey index (8.85±2.31 versus 8±1.82), and an increased chance of menstrual regularity (rate=2.67). SHBG concentration increased (21.01±7.9 versus 23.85±7.77 nmol/l) and the free androgen index was reduced (14.81±9.06 versus 11.48±6.18). None of these parameters were modified in the placebo group. Mild side-effects occurred in 84% of the patients in the acarbose group and disappeared after the first 3 months. CONCLUSION: A low dose of acarbose administered to obese patients with PCOS promotes a reduction in free androgen index and BMI and an increase in SHBG, with improvement of hirsutism and of the menstrual pattern, and is well tolerated by patients.