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October 25, 2003

Pills for Diabetes

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Question from Oxly, Missouri, USA:

Why would a doctor prescribe Glucophage for a patient who does not have diabetes?

Answer:

From: DTeam Staff

Glucophage [metformin] has been used as a medication to treat insulin resistance, especially when other components of the metabolic syndrome exist. These might include hyperlipidemia, increased androgens causing acne and excessive hair growth, irregular menses, and obesity. These symptoms are very common with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The idea is that you decrease the insulin resistance and improve the other clinical parameters.

JTL
Additional comments from Jane Seley, diabetes nurse specialist:

Metformin may also be used for obesity and for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

JS