TLDR Metformin helps manage diabetes, PCOS, and weight in kids but needs more research for long-term safety.
The review article discussed the use of metformin in pediatric patients for conditions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and weight gain from atypical antipsychotic drugs. Metformin was effective in improving glycemic control in T2DM and T1DM, enhancing ovulation and reducing androgen levels in PCOS, and managing weight and adiposity in various pediatric conditions. However, its long-term efficacy and safety remained uncertain, necessitating further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods. Common side effects included gastrointestinal issues, but severe adverse events were rare. The only approved pediatric use at the time was for T2DM in adolescents, though the authors advocated for its approval in managing PCOS.
18 citations,
January 2009 in “Journal of Endocrinological Investigation” Flutamide works better than finasteride for hirsutism, and combining both is slightly better but not much.
343 citations,
December 2008 in “Endocrine Reviews” Metformin helps with menstrual cycles and insulin levels in PCOS but is less effective for hair growth, diabetes prevention, and weight loss, and may improve fertility and reduce diabetes risk.
4025 citations,
December 2003 in “Human Reproduction” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and linked PCOS to higher risks of diabetes and heart problems, recommending lifestyle changes to lower these risks.
January 2014 in “S. Karger AG eBooks” Type 2 diabetes in youth is increasing, with high treatment failure rates and more severe than Type 1; certain drugs can lower lipid levels effectively with varying side effects, and apples may benefit heart health like statins but with fewer side effects.
1 citations,
January 2022 in “Journal of experimental and clinical medicine” PCOS is linked to diabetes and insulin resistance, and managing AGEs may help treat related symptoms.
14 citations,
October 2020 in “Journal of ethnopharmacology” Lepidium sativum seed extracts helped reduce inflammation and improve insulin response in obese rats on a high-fat diet.
11 citations,
July 2016 in “Endocrinology” Higher Lnk protein levels in ovaries may lead to insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
4 citations,
October 2022 in “Nutrients” Personalized diets, like the Mediterranean Diet and low carb diets, can help manage PCOS symptoms in obese women, and probiotics may enhance weight loss and improve metabolic health. More research is needed to find the best diet strategies.
