Beneficial effects of combination therapy of metformin and curcumin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in women, linked to issues such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances. While metformin and curcumin have individually shown benefits in managing these metabolic and hormonal parameters, their combined effects in PCOS were previously unclear. 

The current randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted involving 200 women with PCOS over 12 weeks. Participants were assigned in 1:1:1:1 ratio to one of four groups: metformin plus placebo, nanocurcumin plus placebo, a combination of both, or double placebo. They all were evaluated for lipid profiles, glucose metabolism markers, hormonal parameters, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) at baseline and week 12.

The results revealed the following findings:

• The combination of metformin and curcumin remarkably improved lipid profiles, glucose metabolism, hormonal parameters, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) as compared to individual treatments or placebo.
• Notable improvements were seen with the combination therapy included reductions in low-density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol, total cholesterol (TC), and triglycerides (TG), alongside increases in high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol.
• The combination therapy also enhanced glucose metabolism markers and exhibited synergistic effects on body weight and BMI. 
• Additionally, the combination therapy had the potential to decrease testosterone levels and improve follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels.

In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the combined use of metformin and curcumin has superior potential than individual treatments or placebo in improving various health parameters including lipid profiles, glucose metabolism, hormonal parameters, body weight, and BMI in women with PCOS. The results are indicative of a promising synergistic effect for these agents in managing the disorder.

Source: Feghhi F, Ghaznavi H, Sheervalilou R, Razavi M, Sepidarkish M. Effects of metformin and curcumin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A factorial clinical trial. Phytomedicine. 2024 Oct 16;135:156160. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.156160. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39461199.