I have type 1 diabetes and recently started taking Glucophage. Will that help increase my chances of conceiving?

Glucophage [metformin] has recently been used in patients with a condition termed Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. This condition is associated with insulin resistance, obesity, elevated lipids, a tendency toward glucose intolerance, irregular menses, acne, and extra hair growth. The Glucophage helps improve insulin sensitivity which is thought to decrease the androgens and allow for resumption of regular menses, ovulation, and pregnancy.

Some patients with type�1 diabetes may also have a genetic predisposition to insulin resistance or type�2 diabetes. This results in large insulin requirements, although they cannot manufacture the insulin on their own because of type 1 diabetes. I am not sure the Glucophage will work with you since you are providing your own insulin though injections. Could it be you have persistent production of insulin and are not necessarily type 1?

This would have to be something you discuss with your physician. Remember that Glucophage is not FDA-approved for resumption of normal menses and weight loss. A discussion of risks and benefits should be discussed to properly place the use of the medication for your problem. It has been popular to use this medication in patients without type 1 diabetes as a means of permitting pregnancy. No long-term studies are available, although short-term studies have been shown to be beneficial in patients without type 1 diabetes.

An additional issue to address is whether you are on too much exogenous insulin.

JTL