The role of insulin sensitizers and calcium plus vitamin D3 preparations in the combined treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactor diseases associated with genetic predisposition to this pathology that develops under effect of the unfavourable environmental factors. One of the main causes that provokes hyperandrogenic anovulation in PCOS is pathologic insulin resistance arising in the predisposed subjects as a result of supranormal dietary intake and low physical activity. Such factors as calcium and vitamin D insufficiency, besides other metabolic disturbances and ovarian dysfunction, play an important role in the energy imbalance associated with PCOS. Moreover, these factors along with obesity and insulin resistance are responsible for a broad spectrum of PCOS complications. There is a wealth of data suggesting the positive influence of insulin sensitizers (in the first place, metformin) on the ovarian function and their prophylactic effect on the risk of PCOS. The effectiveness of therapy using such micronutrients as calcium and vitamin D is less known. However, the results of the relevant studies give evidence of good prospects for their application for the prevention of PCOS and its consequences.