A woman with PCOS and BMI of 32 kg/m² is diagnosed with insulin resistance. She is not trying to conceive. Which medication reduces both androgen levels and cardiovascular risk markers in PCOS?
- A Spironolactone
- B Metformin ✓
- C Flutamide
- D Finasteride
Explanation
Metformin is an insulin sensitizer that reduces hyperinsulinemia in PCOS; since insulin directly stimulates ovarian androgen production, reducing insulin levels lowers androgen concentrations. Additionally, metformin improves lipid profiles and reduces cardiovascular risk markers including LDL and triglycerides. Spironolactone and flutamide are anti-androgens that block androgen receptors but do not address the underlying metabolic dysfunction or cardiovascular risk.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
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