Lecture Notes: Weight Loss with PCOS and Metformin

Introduction

• Speaker: Dr. Perkins, Board Certified OB-GYN
• Topic: Weight loss strategies for individuals with PCOS using Metformin

Metformin Overview

• Commonly prescribed for Type 2 Diabetes
• Also prescribed for PCOS
• Helps regulate insulin sensitivity and resistance

Benefits of Metformin for PCOS

• Improves Insulin Sensitivity:
  • Regulates insulin usage, aiding weight loss and glucose levels
  • Provides hormonal stability
• Reduces Androgen Levels:
  • High androgens in PCOS cause excessive hair growth, acne, and hair thinning
  • Metformin helps alleviate these symptoms

Research on Metformin and Weight Loss

• Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Obstetrics Gynecology, 2014)
  • Found women with PCOS lost 3.5 to 5 pounds more with Metformin
  • Demonstrates Metformin's effectiveness

How to Take Metformin

• Dosage:
  • Start with 500 mg, potentially increasing as tolerated
• Timing:
  • Take with meals to reduce digestive side effects (nausea, diarrhea, vomiting)
  • Maintain a schedule for therapeutic levels
• Hydration:
  • Essential to aid kidney processing

Lifestyle Changes to Support Weight Loss

• Balanced Diet and Regular Exercise
• Stress Management and Adequate Sleep
• Hydration
• Seek support through dietitians for guidance and accountability
  • Research shows support improves success

Additional Support

• Dr. Perkins offers a seven-day challenge for weight loss
• Free lifestyle quiz available to assess hormonal stability

Conclusion

• Metformin can effectively support weight loss in PCOS when combined with lifestyle changes
• Encouragement to seek support when needed
• Resources available for further assistance

• Contact and Resources:
  • Link for free gift and quiz in the video description.
• Thank You:
  • Dr. Perkins appreciates participation and support in the journey.