Metformin

Metformin is an insulin-sensitizing medication originally developed for type 2 diabetes that has become one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for PCOS, particularly for women with insulin resistance. It works by reducing the liver's glucose production and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, which helps lower circulating insulin levels and consequently reduces the ovarian androgen overproduction that drives many PCOS symptoms. Beyond metabolic benefits, metformin may help restore menstrual regularity, support ovulation, and reduce the risk of pregnancy complications in women with PCOS. Common side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, which can often be minimized by starting with a low dose and using the extended-release formulation.