Impact of Treatment with Rosiglitazone or Metformin on Biomarkers for Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

In a 2007 study involving 35 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the effects of metformin and rosiglitazone on insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome biomarkers were compared over a 6-month treatment period. Both medications slightly improved ovulation and insulin sensitivity, with rosiglitazone showing a more pronounced effect on insulin sensitivity. Adiponectin levels, which increased significantly in both groups, were identified as a promising indicator of metabolic status and therapeutic success, especially with rosiglitazone. Metformin led to an increase in visfatin, while rosiglitazone did not, and both treatments increased retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) levels, with a greater increase observed in the metformin group. No changes were seen in intact proinsulin levels or resistin. The study concluded that rosiglitazone might be more favorable for improving insulin resistance in PCOS, but further research is needed to clarify the diagnostic value of visfatin and RBP4 for metabolic syndrome. The study's authors disclosed their consultancy roles with GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of rosiglitazone.