A Comparative Study on N-Acetyl Cysteine and Metformin in Patients with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome at a Tertiary Care Centre in Bihar

Abstract

Introduction: Metformin, an insulin sensitizer, is being used for long time in the treatment of PCOS. Problems associated with Metformin include gastrointestinal side effects, fear of hypoglycemia and increase serum homocystine levels in some patients. Materials and Methods: The study was prospective study to compare the effect of NAC and metformin. It was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Darbhanga Medical College, Darbhanga, India. The study period was from February 2020 to September 2021. A total of 92 patients of PCOS diagnosed by Rotterdam criteria [2] were included in the study after obtaining written informed consent. It was approved by the Institutional Ethical committee. Results: Total 11 patients (7 from group M and 4 from group N) dropped out, due to intolerance of medication. Ultimately, evaluations were limited to 39 patients in group M and 42 patients in group N. Demographically both groups were comparable in terms of age, socio-economic status and BMI. Conclusions: Due to lack of adverse effects, NAC can be regarded as an appropriate substitute for insulin reducing medications in the treatment of PCOS patients.