Comparison of Metformin and N-Acetylcysteine on Metabolic Parameters in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
TLDR N-acetylcysteine was more effective and had fewer side effects than metformin for improving insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
In a study involving 106 women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the effects of metformin (MET) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on metabolic parameters were compared. Both treatments significantly improved insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, but NAC was found to be more effective in improving insulin resistance parameters such as HOMA-IR and in reducing triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, and testosterone levels, while also increasing HDL. Additionally, NAC treatment resulted in fewer side effects, with only 5% of participants reporting issues compared to 26.5% in the MET group. The study concluded that NAC may be a better long-term therapy option for PCOS patients due to its efficacy and minimal side effects.
