Addressing Inositol Use in PCOS Management

Authors

  • Alyse Goldberg, MD Division of Endocrinology, University of Toronto

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58931/cdet.2025.3135

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous complex endocrine disorder characterized by oligo-ovulation, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. Treatment should be individualized based on each patient’s symptoms and reproductive goals. Unfortunately, there is no pharmacologic medication that simultaneously promotes ovulation, improves metabolic health, and reduces clinical hyperandrogenism. Metformin is a well accepted, evidence-based pharmacologic therapy that targets the insulin resistance pathway and improves ovulatory frequency, but it has limited effects on clinical hyperandrogenism as well as poor tolerability for some patients. The growing interest in complementary therapies has highlighted the need for more tolerable and ‘non-pharmacologic’ treatment options. Inositol, a naturally occurring compound, has gained attention as a promising therapeutic agent for managing PCOS. This review aims to support shared decision-making between clinicians and patients by exploring the roll of inositol as a complementary therapy for PCOS management.

Author Biography

Alyse Goldberg, MD, Division of Endocrinology, University of Toronto

Dr. Alyse Goldberg practices as a consultant Endocrinologist at fertility centres in Toronto, as well as a part of the Women’s and Babies team at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre managing patients with gestational diabetes. She is a member of the International PCOS Network that authored the 2023 International Evidence based Guidelines for Assessment and Management of PCOS. She focuses on care of patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome as well as pregestational metabolic optimization.

References

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Published

2025-05-08

How to Cite

Goldberg, A. (2025). Addressing Inositol Use in PCOS Management. Canadian Diabetes & Endocrinology Today, 3(1), 5–9. https://doi.org/10.58931/cdet.2025.3135

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