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Metformin for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome User Reviews (Page 4)

Brand names: Glumetza

Metformin has an average rating of 7.7 out of 10 from a total of 235 reviews for the off-label treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. 66% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 8% reported a negative experience.

Reviews for Metformin

  • Evie
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • May 18, 2017

"I've been on metformin since the beginning of this year and still have no luck with getting pregnant. I was diagnosed with PCOS in my early 20's. I ended up losing weight and got pregnant with my first child at 24 had him at 25. Now my child is 2 and my hunny and I are trying to baby #2. My obgyn had me had 500mg twice daily and slowly now I am at 500mg four times daily. 2 in the morning and 2 at night. I was on birth control to help with my cycle but was told to stop taking it since I am trying to conceive. I will be 28 in Aug and praying we get our 2nd child. Wish us luck and yall ladies are in my prayers."

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  • KrisZ
  • November 29, 2008

"I have had PCOS all my life. I am 32 and had to have a full hysterectomy in May '08. I was told by my (male) doctor that having a complete hysterectomy would relieve me of my PCOS symptoms. It didn't. Ladies, we are still symptomatic of PCOS even with a full hysterectomy. I have since found a (female) doctor who is a specialist with PCOS cases and has me on all the right hormone replacement therapy as well as the Metformin. I take 5 pills a day and it is helping tremendously. I am losing weight and feeling better. I do get a bit tired as I adjust to the higher dosing. However, I have never felt better in my life. I would strongly advice seeing a female doctor for the PCOS issue at any age. Women just understand women - plain and simple."

9 / 10
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  • Jodi
  • May 8, 2017

"I was diagnosed with PCOS when I was 24, I wasn't taken anything. I'm now 25 due to how my period being missing for 3 months lately, I gained about 25 pounds plus unable to give my husband a child , my doctor now prescribe metformin and a weight loss plan. I have being taking it for 2 weeks now, trying to eat healthy and exercising.. please wish me luck"

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Frequently asked questions

  • REQueen
  • December 5, 2016

"I was diagnosed with PCOS late. I am 49 years old but didnt know I had PCOS for quite a few years. I just thought it was early menopause. I gained 100 lbs in 2 years. I started at 285 lbs. Here is the key: Whatever the doc prescribes, start first week taking only one 500 mg pill per day and take it after you have had a few bites of your meal, then eat the rest of your meal. Then the second week, add the 2nd pill per day, etc. Its all about gradual adding. Per this smart doc, if you allow your body to get used to it the first week and take with food, you will be less likely to suffer the nausea, etc. Using it, I have finally had a period and my energy level has increased. I am looking forward to the weight loss and other benefits."

9 / 10
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  • Helman
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • August 22, 2017

"Hey OP sorry I didn't read through the thread so not sure if anyone mentioned this but I used to take regular metformin 500mg 2x per day but like you I would be on and off cause it literally made me so sick and tired. But recently my new doctor recommended metformin extended release. I swear it's been a life changer for me. I take 500 mg per day and I've been losing weight and it doesn't make me feel sick at all! I've also been taking biotin simultaneously which has increased my overall mood and energy, not to mention my hair and nails have been growing too!"

9 / 10
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Are you taking this medicine?

  • Londo...
  • October 2, 2011

"I have just been diagnosed with having Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Before the diagnosis I put on about 40 lbs just out of the blue within 8 months. I also had excess hair on my face, stomach and legs, and I only had about 6 periods in the last year. I went for a pelvic scan and for the last 9 days I have been taking Metformin (500mg twice a day) under the doctor's orders. Something is definitely happening because I had a period within 5 days of taking the medication and I've lost about 4 lbs in the last week. The side effects were annoying. I had a lot of gas and diarrhea for about 3 days. The side effects seem to have passed now. My overall experience with Metformin is fairly good so far. I am looking forward to seeing more results."

7 / 10
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  • Anonymous
  • December 20, 2010

"I was originally started on Metformin two years ago-when I first started I was supposed to take 500mg twice a day then gradually up to three times a day. No matter when I took it I got horribly sick to where I missed work and could not even leave the house. After stopping the metformin I tried other medications and things got worse. After reading some reviews I started taking Metformin extended release. I have been taking it for about three weeks and have had no stomach issues. If you have a sensitive stomach I highly suggest asking about the extended release. I take it at night with dinner and I am fine. Hope this helps!"

8 / 10
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More FAQ

  • Ruby
  • March 16, 2015

"I was diagnosed with PCOS about 2 weeks ago, but been suffering from it long. I am 17 on 18 pretty soon; normal no periods, unwanted facial hair, some depression, no sleep, very unwanted weight. I'm on round 2 (2nd week) so I'm drinking 2 pills a day, experienced some stomach pain, a bit drowsy, nothing to bothersome, but I started my period! that's good! will stay updated!"

8 / 10
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  • Nixie...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • December 12, 2016

"For the past year I have been keenly exercising on top of a previously healthy diet. Despite this, I put on weight (thanks PCOS). I then came off hormonal birth control in May and the weight gain happened quicker. My diet was heavily restricted, I ramped up the exercise constantly and nothing changed. It cost £600 privately but I got a metformin prescription. It's only been two weeks and what a difference. Almost 7lbs lost (back to healthy weight range) with no lifestyle change (but I do eat clean and exercise daily). One upset tummy three days in but nothing more. I feel like finally the work I have put in over the last year is visible and it feels so, so good. I've almost cried with relief multiple times!"

10 / 10
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  • Sami...
  • February 1, 2015

"I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome when I was 16 Y/O and very irregular periods and some body hair. I was becoming increasingly unhappy with how things were and so the doctor tried to help by putting me on the pill. This helped only by regulating my 'period' every month instead of having a random period twice a month or nothing for 4 - 6 months. I'm 28 now and I've literally been on Yasmin since I was 17 to 27 y/o with no breaks. My hubby and I are trying to conceive so I came off the pill in March 2014 and from then till Nov 2014 I had one natural period. So, the doctor prescribed Metformin in November, I take only 500mg twice a day and on Dec 24th 2014 I had my period. Then again now Jan 30th 2015. The only down fall is very sore cramps."

8 / 10
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  • Sarah...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • October 15, 2016

"I'll be 25 this month. I had a miscarriage when I was a teen and never thought anything of what it meant. When I was 20 I got pregnant with my son but I was in amazing shape because I was in the army. Now here I am with pcos and irregular periods. My husband and I (not my sons biological dad) have been ttc for like 18 months at least and have had no luck! This past January we went to a fertility doctor where I was diagnosed with pcos and a blocked tube. In June I stopped having a period. Last month I went to the doctor for depression, he said getting on metformin wouldn't be a bad idea. About a week and a half after taking the medicine I got my period. I was so excited! Now to wait and see if we're able to conceive. ❤️❤️❤️"

9 / 10
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  • Krissyb
  • August 21, 2015

"Metformin so far has been good to me. I have had no side effects. Most likely because I stick to the diet the doctor prescribed. I stay away from carbs from bread, fried food, and candy and sweets. I mainly eat fruits, veggies, and salads in moderation. I feel really good."

5 / 10
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  • Frust...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 9, 2013

"I have had diagnosed Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome since 1991. Years of problems. I tried Metformin the first time around 1995 and it did nothing. I had weight loss surgery in 2010 and got to just below 200 lbs. Hormones actually got worse with weight loss and a year later to the day, I had a full hysterectomy. 6 months later my only ovary started kicking into overdrive. Crazy hormones, cravings and of course ruptured cysts...all the time. Doc decided to try metformin and said it could be different this time. After a week I noticed great results. 2 weeks in I got so nauseated that I thought I had the flu. Then the headaches. They tried to diagnose me with migraines at the age of 42. It was the Metformin."

6 / 10
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  • 33yro...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • July 25, 2012

"I was misdiagnosed with depression/anxiety. Stopped menstruating in 2000 after taking the birth control shot. Gained 80lbs I can't shed. Started taking metformin after doctor connected the symptoms I had with my 4 miscarriages, and that I had to take fertility drugs to have the 2 children I have. I felt immediately better. Still have a hard time trying to shed the weight, but I feel like awful when I don't take this medicine."

8 / 10
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  • Sam
  • April 30, 2020

"I started With 250mg only At day 5 I started 500mg Weird side effects Mild diarrhea Quite bearable But stomach pain on left side Bloating and flatulence And I quit within 10 days Now after a month I started again from 250 Same ,stomach pain has started on upper left abdomen I hope it's a minor side effect And it wont harm my stomach But I wonder why this left side pain occurs It's not cramp but a It's a discomfort that sometimes radiate to my left side chest and left arm and then disappears"

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  • Dani
  • April 5, 2017

"I was diagnosed with PCOS at 22 I am now 29, I have had regular periods due to birth control, but my doctor mentioned metformin for me to go on because My husband and I want to start a family. I have read some successful stories and I am so glad to see them. I was 280 lbs at one point, I was sad, and hated myself for being that big but I got through it. I started going to the gym and trying to eat better, I lost 80 and then some but I have put back on about 15 and pushed be back to 200lbs and it's hard to keep the weight off. At the gym 5 times a week soon, trying to get healthy to have a baby besides going on the medication. Wish me luck!!"

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  • Likatu
  • January 11, 2020

"Like most of you, diagnosed with PCOS. Gained lots of weight that can't seem to be able to shed. Bad acne on around my chin and jawline. Also a few thick facial hair. I am also 28 and want to start a family. Been on birth control pills and honestly was going no where with it. Crazy heavy periods that last to a year or so. Been off BC and no period guess its better the long heavy ones. Seeing everyone reviews gives me hope to loose unwanted facial hair, acne & weight and also go get my cycle ready to conceive. 2nd day on metformin so crazy side effects yet just loose stool."

9 / 10
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  • Derence
  • April 27, 2017

"Before, I am having my period every four months and gained so much weight from 65kg to 75kg so I consulted obgyn about it. I was diagnosed with PCOS, so I take metformin for once a day every night. And then twice a day everyday. Now I am having my period every month. Thanks to metformin!"

9 / 10
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  • Sammy
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • February 3, 2020

"I have been prescribed Metformin XR 1000mg per day and increasing to 1500mg next week. It has reduced my appetite but every time I eat I get stomach cramps and need to run to the toilet. I have a sensitive bowel anyway so my body takes a while to adjust to medication, therefore I am prepared to endure the tummy upsets for a couple more weeks. I am normally always hungry and need to eat a fair amount of food, however when on Metformin I am rarely hungry and it doesn't take much to fill me up. With the combination of reduced appetite and frequent visits to the toilet, it's no wonder people lose weight. Short term pain for long term gain yeah?"

8 / 10
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  • Tink
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • January 21, 2016

"pcos diagnosis at 25, weight issues, irregular periods, cystic ovaries. No medication. At 26 I fell pregnant naturally to my first and only (hopefully only so far) and after I gave birth I really copped the brunt of my PCOS. Even though I breastfed I went an entire year without a period so Dr put on metformin 500mg a day. Within a week my periods started again and have been semi-regular since (only ever off by a max of 3 days at my due date). My anxiety and depression calmed down dramatically too. I have experienced weight loss on the medication but only through hard work, not with some of the ease I have read about. I did also experience the digestive complaints, but mainly when I took the medication on an empty stomach. They do ease."

7 / 10
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  • Anonymous
  • November 3, 2011

"I was diagnosed with PCOS 5 weeks ago and have been on Metformin ever since. So far I haven't lost any weight (Luckily my condition was caught before I gained too much, I only have about 25lbs to lose) I am a registered dietitian and exercise daily so the not losing weight is a bit discouraging but my Endocrinologist has assured me that I will, apparently with some people it can take up to 4 months to start losing. The side effects were horrible the first two weeks along with horrible cramping and a constant period for 3 weeks. However, now I have no side effects at all, you just have to stick with it. My doctor was great and recommended taking the metformin at night so that I would be at home for the side effects. I take 1500 mg daily."

8 / 10
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  • toy
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • March 24, 2016

"Well 8 months later still on metformin I've lost a total of 20pds and for the first time I received my period on its own I'm currently not taking any birth control pills I'm so happy so maybe I'll be reporting a baby next time I've gotta my a1c down to 5.9 I'm taking 2000ml of metformin"

10 / 10
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  • Chubb...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 11, 2016

"I was very active before getting pregnant, but had weight problems and irregular periods since puberty. When I got pregnant i went from 130 lbs to 230 lbs during the pregnancy and nothing I did helped me lose weight. After several months of trying everything I went on metformin and finally started to lose weight. I was diagnosed as pre diabetic at that time. I went from 215 to 145 in 4-5 months after starting the medication. I quit taking it and I didn't gain any weight back. Then I got pregnant and had a miscarriage and gained 25 lbs in about a month. After trying all kinds of diets and exercise I got diagnosed with PCOS and started taking it again. I've lost 25 lbs. I still haven't been able to conceive, but it's only been a few months."

8 / 10
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  • Jas
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • October 7, 2019

"Hey ladies, I was so relieved when I found this site with all of you woman speaking out on your experience. Today was my second time a doctor prescribed me Metformin for my PCOS . I'm 22 years old and was diagnosed around age 19 , at 19 my periods just STOPPED after being regular since like age 12 . Currently I haven't had a cycle since April 1st, today is October 7th. The acne and weight gain is stressing me out !!! BUT I'm so scared to take this medication I never picked it up from the pharmacy . My mom makes me even more scared about it . I wish we could all chat about this BATTLE .Well today I think I will pick it up and give it a try after reading all of these reviews !! Wish me luck , better yet keep me in your prayers that this may help turn my condition around, before I get older and have to stress about even just having a baby ."

1 / 10
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  • Tania
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 25, 2019

"I went to my OBGYN and got diagnosed with PCOS. She didn't do blood work but she did do a vaginal ultrasound and we got to see all my little cysts on both ovaries. I had so many on both of them that we couldn't count all of them. Since my husband and I have been trying to conceive for 9 years, my Doctor put me on a "combo" medication, as she calls it. She put me on Metformin 850mg a day and on Radiance20, which is Drospirenone-Ethinyl Estradio, for 1 tablet a day. I'm suppose to take it for 3 months then do Clomid for 3 months, if nothing happens then I have to repeat everything again for the same amount of time. I started my treatment 2 weeks ago and I still haven't gotten my period and I'm getting concerned. As for my symptoms, I've had mild diarrhea, less hungry, lower abdominal cramping, breast tenderness and lost 3 pounds. I'll update when I can! Thank you everyone."

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Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

Learn more about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Symptoms and treatments