The Mother of All Issues: Fertility

The Mother of All Issues: Fertility

India has a population of over 1.3 billion, yet around 15% of the Indian population — both male and female — are infertile. Fertility has become the mother of all issues.

A large number of diseases today are related to changes in lifestyle and environment. PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is one example, affecting 1 in 15 women worldwide. It has become such a crucial issue in young women and fertility that its existence cannot be ignored anymore.

Metformin and PCOS

Scientists found a commonly used drug to start treating women with PCOS. Metformin reduces blood sugar levels and is approved by the FDA for treatment of type 2 diabetes. In women with infertility due to PCOS, trials found metformin plus Clomid to be more effective than Clomid alone in ovulation induction. For most women with PCOS trying to conceive, the first medication option to induce ovulation is still Clomid. However, metformin is arguably the first choice in women with impaired glucose tolerance and certainly in women with type 2 diabetes.

How Does It Work?

Metformin’s main action is suppression of endogenous glucose production by the liver. It does not cause hypoglycaemia, weight gain, unfavourable alteration of lipids, nor increase insulin secretion. Instead, metformin improves the effectiveness of insulin while maintaining or even decreasing insulin levels.

Possible Side Effects

Metformin is a very safe medication when used properly. Gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhoea or nausea are initially common but usually subside. Reduced appetite, metallic taste in the mouth, and decrease in Vitamin B12 levels are other known issues. Taking metformin with food and slowly building up to the target dosage can mitigate these effects. Women with liver dysfunction, excessive alcohol intake, or severe illness are advised not to take metformin.

Does Metformin Work for You?

Recent research reveals that our genes play a big role in determining our response to metformin. Genomepatri by MapmyGenome screens for metformin response, among many other drug response traits — helping save time and costs during treatments.