Cardiovascular risk factors are reduced with a low dose of acarbose in obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Author(s): Araujo Penna I, Canella PR, Vieira CS, Silva de Sa MF, dos Reis RM, Ferriani RA

Affiliation(s): Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil; Gynecology Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Publication date & source: 2007-08, Fertil Steril., 88(2):519-22. Epub 2007 Apr 6.

Publication type: Randomized Controlled Trial

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is defined by menstrual irregularity, hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation, and enlarged ovaries with multiple follicles. Polycystic ovary syndrome is highly prevalent in women, affecting up to 10% of all women of reproductive age and reducing the possibility of spontaneous conception. In addition to altering reproductive function, PCOS has systemic implications, especially in the cardiovascular system. Cardiovascular risk (CVR) in PCOS patient increases because of insulin resistance, elevated androgen levels, and association with obesity. Those alterations promote cardiovascular risk factors, such as endothelial dysfunction, elevated homocysteine levels, left ventricular hypertrophy, and reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (1).