Effects of metformin on body weight in polycystic ovary syndrome patients: model-based meta-analysis.

Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on body weight in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients by model-based meta-analysis (MBMA).

Methods: Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies of metformin in treatment of PCOS patients were collected and efficacy indicators were the body mass index (BMI) change rates from baseline.

Results: 28 RCT studies, 1631 PCOS patients were included for analysis. Model of metformin monotherapy, and model of metformin combination therapy were established, respectively. After deducting control group effects, the E of metformin on BMI were -5.88% and -11.8% in metformin monotherapy and metformin combination therapy, respectively. In order to play better curative effects, for metformin monotherapy, 1000 mg/day metformin needs for at least 25.5 weeks; For metformin combination therapy, 1000 mg/day metformin needs for at least 58.6 weeks.

Conclusion: It was the first time to quantify the effects of metformin on body weight and recommend dose and duration for metformin monotherapy and metformin combination therapy in PCOS patients.