Comparing Acupuncture and Metformin with Lifestyle Management for Insulin Resistance in Women Aged 18 to 40 with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of acupuncture compared to metformin, both combined with lifestyle management, in improving glucose control in women with insulin resistance and polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS. The study aims to see if these treatments improve ovulation, hormone balance, quality of life, and symptoms of anxiety and depression, while also investigating if acupuncture has fewer side effects. They also explore whether these treatments can reverse molecular changes that may help prevent type 2 diabetes. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups lifestyle management alone, lifestyle management plus acupuncture, or lifestyle management plus metformin. Acupuncture treatments involve inserting sterile needles into specific abdominal and leg acupuncture points related to ovarian and pancreatic function, administered three times weekly for four weeks, then twice weekly for twelve weeks. Metformin is taken orally, starting at a low dose and gradually increasing to 1500 mg daily over 16 weeks. All women receive lifestyle advice on weight management, diet, and exercise at the start. During the study, participants undergo assessments at the start, after 4 months of treatment, and again 4 months post-treatment. These include blood tests measuring insulin sensitivity, glucose levels, hormone levels, and molecular markers from tissue samples. Researchers will also monitor menstrual patterns, ovulation, quality of life, mental health symptoms, eating habits, and treatment side effects. The study lasts 8 months with ongoing evaluations to determine the cost-effectiveness and overall impact of each treatment approach.

Acupuncture or Metformin for Insulin Resistance in Women With PCOS