Metformin

I've seen this medication prescribed many times for PCOS. The theory behind this is a good one. Metformin is part of the antidiabetic drug class called bigaundies. But you don't have to be a type 2 diabetic to use it. These drugs work by causing tissues to become more sensitive to insulin and help transfer glucose to the cells more effectively. The overall effect is more stable, constant blood sugar levels, which cause less cravings for food and can result in weightloss. The weightloss in turn helps to balance sex hormones and can aide or reverse the effects of PCOS. It can work very well, but I'm glad you're here with us on MFP, because a balanced diet and decrease in total calories will of course support further weightloss and resolution. If you aren't diabetic then you'll have to watch for signs and symptoms of low blood sugar and I hope they went over those with you at the doctors office. (Clammy, cold skin, shakiness, confusion, anxiety to name a few).
Wishing you all the best!

I'm currently on it for PCOS and I hate it but I deal. The reason I hate it is for two reasons: 1. I hate taking pills and 2. It tears up my stomach. I have changed my way of eating so I'm taking in less carbs and sugar and that seems to help with the stomach issue plus walking for 30 min a day. I have lost weight on it but I think it has more to do with the way of eating & exercise then the medication. I'm hoping to come off it it by next summer when I see my doctor.

I agree with what Leslie stated, if you are not on it due to being diabetic keep an eye out for signs and symptoms of low blood sugar as it can make your sugar drop.

Yes I take it, 1000 mg per day. I have taken it for a number of years. It has never keep me from losing weight. Try taking your meds after eating if you aren't already doing so. Drop enough weight and exercise, you MAY be taken off (by the doctor) Metformin. Good luck, and keep on plan..

I take it for insulin resistance, which goes hand in hand with PCOS. I also am careful with my diet and exercise regularly. Hopefully with weight loss, my insulin resistance will go away and I will eventually be able to come off it. Metformin does cause some stomach upset, so be careful to take it with a meal and drink lots of water.

Always take with food, split it up with your meals, and introduce it slowly. Even starting at half dose until your system gets used to it.

GI upset is definitely a major complaint, my poor grandma can't take it because she looses control over her bowels. Some people cannot tolerate it, but luckily there are other drugs in the class that can produce the same benefit w/o as many side effects.