Inositol Or Metformin for PCOS: What The Evidence Shows
Should I take Metformin or inositol for my PCOS? This is a question I get asked frequently.
First, yes, you can take inositol while on Metformin. For those of you who don’t know about inositol, it’s a vitamin-like supplement that helps people with PCOS to regulate cycles, restore hormone balance and improve ovulation. People with PCOS who are no longer interested in fertility can also find inositol helpful because it can help manage blood sugar, cravings, and even lower insulin, which can help to reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes.
You can take inositol if you are taking metformin because they work differently. I personally experienced some good benefits when I added inositol, specifically the supplement we have in the PCOS Nutrition Center Store called Ovasitol. You can read more about my experience in this article: I TOOK OVASITOL. HERE’S WHAT HAPPENED
How Does Metformin Work for PCOS?
Metformin is a very common medication used in the PCOS population, even though it is not yet approved specifically to treat PCOS.
Metformin works as an insulin-sensitizer to reduce your production of glucose. Metformin lowers blood glucose and insulin levels in three ways:
- It suppresses the liver’s production of glucose.
- It increases the sensitivity of your liver, muscle, fat, and cells to the insulin your body makes.
- It decreases the absorption of carbohydrates you consume.
Metformin can reduce insulin levels and perhaps reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes in people with PCOS. Metformin can improve the regularity of some women’s menstrual cycles, helping them to conceive.
For more information about metformin for PCOS, read WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT TAKING METFORMIN FOR PCOS
But metformin doesn’t work for everyone with PCOS, and not everyone wants to take metformin, which is why inositols may be a good option.
How Do Inositols Work for PCOS?
MYO and d-chiro inositol (DCI) are separate molecules that work differently in the body. It’s believed that women with PCOS may have a defect in the insulin receptor’s “secondary messengers“ contributing to insulin resistance and infertility. MYO and DCI work as these secondary messengers.
Simply put: when we eat foods (mostly carbohydrates), they get converted into glucose in our blood stream. We need the glucose to enter our cells to be used for energy. When blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released. Insulin then binds to a receptor on the cell’s surface, causing secondary messengers to be released. These messengers send a signal (imagine a doorbell is rung) telling the cell to open the door and let glucose in.
However, with PCOS, the doorbell may be broken. This means that it takes longer for the cells to open its doors to glucose resulting in higher amounts of insulin needing to be secreted. Inositols work as secondary messengers to repair the doorbell so that the cell doors open in correct response to glucose, resulting in less insulin needing to be secreted. See this video I made for more detailed explanation on how inositol works.
Most tissues in the body have a 40:1 ratio of MYO to DCI. It’s been shown that MYO inositol gets converted into d-chiro inositol (DCI) but that this conversion is happening too quickly in PCOS, depleting levels of MYO and leading to more DCI. This is why a a 40:1 myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol blend, like Ovasitol is recommended.
Health Benefits of Myo and DCI Inositol
- Regulates menstrual cycles
- Promotes Ovulation
- Improves egg quality
- Curbs carb cravings
- Decreases the risk of gestational diabetes in pregnancy
- Lowers insulin and glucose
- Lowers cholesterol
- Lowers inflammation
- Improves anxiety
- Improves acne
Inositols or Metformin for PCOS
Now that inositol use is rising in the PCOS population, new research is starting to compare the benefits of inositol with metformin in women with PCOS. The results may surprise you!
A 2023 meta-analysis reviewed the inositol research and concludes it is a safe and effective treatment for PCOS and as effective as metformin for most outcomes, without the side effects. This study reviewed data from 26 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including data of 1691 patients. Here is what their evidence showed.
Compared to placebo, inositol had a significant effect on:
- normalizing menstrual cycles
- lowering body mass index (BMI)
- reducing androgens (testosterone, free testosterone, and androstenedione)
- increasing sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
- reducing fasting plasma glucose
Compared to metformin, inositol had:
- 84% fewer side effects
- the same efficacy in normalizing menstrual cycles, lowering BMI, lowering testosterone levels, and improving glycemic outcomes.
Combined Myo and DCI with Metformin
A study published in the Evidence-Based Women’s Health Journal looked at 128 women with PCOS who took 1500 mg metformin or myo + d-chiro inositol (in a 40:1 ratio) daily for 3 months. The results: Myo + DCI showed significantly better results in weight reduction, ovulation, and pregnancy rates (46.7% vs. 11.2%) than metformin.
MYO compared with Metformin
A systematic review and meta analysis looked at six trials with a total of 355 patients with PCOS. They found similar results with patients who took myo inositol when compared with metformin. Both groups improved insulin and testosterone levels similarly. Metformin was found to have much worse adverse effects (but many of you already knew that!).
Here’s what some of the earlier research that compared inositol with metformin for PCOS showed:
Fifty PCOS women with IR and/or hyperinsulinemia were randomized to treatment with metformin (1500 mg/day) or myo-inositol (4 g/day). The results obtained in both groups were similar and the insulin levels improved in both treatment groups.
In a previous controlled trial also in Gynecology and Endocrinology, 120 PCOS women trying to conceive took 1500 mg metformin vs 4 g myo + 400 mcg folic acid daily. Their results: women who took myo inositol had a better ovulation (65% vs. 50%) and pregnancy rate (30% vs. 18%) compared with the women who took metformin.
Mental Health Benefits
The comparison of myo-inositol and metformin on mental health parameters has even been investigated. Women with PCOS who took myo inositol saw greater benefits in improving depression, anxiety and stress when compared with metformin.
These studies show encouraging news for inositol being a promising first-line treatment for helping women with PCOS conceive and reduce insulin. Inositol is a good for those who can’t tolerate the side effects of metformin (as I mentioned, inositol can also be taken with metformin for those who do tolerate it).
My patients who take a combination of myo and DCI see a reduction in cravings, less hunger, and some get their periods back and more regular within a month (3 months of use is recommended for full effects). Typical dosage of Ovasitol is 2 packets each day (4 grams myo inositol total) in two divided doses. We recommend taking ovasitol with meals for maximum benefits. Ovasitol is well tolerated. As always, consult with your doctor prior to use. Only take inositol or any dietary supplement while under the supervision of a health care provider.
Tell us! What benefits have you seen by taking inositol?
Sources:
- Greff D et al. Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2023 Jan 26;21(1):10.
- Facchinetti F. Short-term effects of metformin and myo-inositol in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2019 Mar;35(3):198-206.
- Fruzzetti F. Comparison of two insulin sensitizers, metformin and myo-inositol, in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Gynecol Endocrinol. 2017 Jan;33(1):39-42.
- Hamid A et al. Evidence-Based Women’s Health Journal. 2015;5(3):93–98.
- Raffone E, et al. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2010;26(4):275-80.
- Jamilian H. Comparison of myo-inositol and metformin on mental health parameters and biomarkers of oxidative stress in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol. 2018 Dec;39(4):307-314.
Angela Grassi, MS, RDN, LDN, is the founder of The PCOS Nutrition Center, for which she has been providing evidence-based nutrition information and coaching to people with PCOS for over 20 years. Angela is the author of several books on PCOS, including PCOS: The Dietitian’s Guide, The PCOS Workbook: Your Guide to Complete Physical and Emotional Health, and The PCOS Nutrition Center Cookbook. Angela is the past recipient of The Outstanding Nutrition Entrepreneur Award, The Award in Excellence in Practice in Women’s Health, and The Award for Excellence in Graduate Research, from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Having PCOS herself, Angela has been dedicated to advocacy, education, and research of the syndrome. Click here to schedule a session with Angela to learn more about how nutrition coaching for PCOS can help you!
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Comments (88)
Caroline
October 28, 2015 at 3:09 pm
Hi, I’m wondering if you have any thoughts about Pioglitazone and PCOS? I recently switched from Metformin to Pioglitazone for my IR.
Shiri Morgan
October 29, 2015 at 3:10 pm
So interesting…will definitely start to recommend to my PCOS patients! My question is, does it have the same insulin sensitizing effect on those without PCOS? Those with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes?
Angela Grassi
November 2, 2015 at 3:11 pm
We don’t know yet how inositol works for those without PCOS. Women with PCOS have an intrinsci insulin resistance that is different from those with type 2 diabetes or obesity. Since it can reduce Ha1C levels, it’s worth trying it.
Lisa Amick
November 3, 2015 at 3:12 pm
Several years ago after reading articles about Inositol, I purchased and tried D=Chiro-Inositol by Chiral Balance. It was very expensive and after my initial 3 month trial, I didn’t see any positive changes from using it. Their site recommended longer use was possibly required to see results, but I wasn’t willing to put out that much money again. Earlier this summer I began reading articles from PCOS Nutrition Center and came across an article regarding Inositol supplements. I had already begun using an over the counter Niacin supplement by Radiance from CVS earlier in the year, which had helped me lose 10 lbs. Seeing results I was more open to trying further Inositol supplements and the explanation of the effectiveness of the Ovasitol brand made sense. Since using this brand, I’ve been able to drop another 10+ lbs. I’m at the lowest weight I’ve been in over 20yrs, since I had my oldest child. I’m still very much overweight, but to me it’s the most amazing thing! I’ve also had my yearly checkup and through the use of Inositol supplements, I’ve lowered my HAIC and my cholesterol levels, which are well within normal limits. Last year at my annual physical, my cholesterol was elevated and my physician wanted me to consider taking a cholesterol lowering medication, which I declined. I knew/know that my cholesterol is directly related to my PCOS and how well I can keep my PCOS in check. I’m constantly looking for new possible holistic treatments in addition to my metformin preion. I’ve had to manage my own treatment of my PCOS, because the only treatment ever suggested to me by any physician was metformin. Thru the years by reading various articles, I’ve added multiple supplements to my regimen. I’ve also diagnosed myself with low vitamin D and B12 levels, which I had confirmed by blood tests that my physician ordered. Thank goodness we live in a day and age of the internet, where we have the opportunity to research for ourselves, because without it, I would not be able to care for myself! Unfortunately, due to the lack of knowledge and concern in the medical field to diagnose and treat PCOS, you have to be your own patient advocate!
karen
February 18, 2016 at 3:22 pm
Hi, I’m just trying to learn about PCOS,being recently diagnosed…I was just wondering if I currently don’t have excessive hair growth and weight gain, will I stay this way or get new symptoms as time goes on?
Angela Grassi
February 18, 2016 at 3:29 pm
Hi Karen,
thanks for your comment. If you don’t already have symptoms, your chances are lower of having them when your older. In general though, PCOS symptoms tend to get worse with age if PCOS is not well managed.
Hope this helps!
My
March 7, 2016 at 3:46 am
Really helpful fpr me, i’m struggling daily to keep off the sugar. I try to exchange candy with healthier options like sweet vegetables and fruit. Also working on cutting out dairy and gluten. Thanks for an awesome page!
My
joss Williams
September 10, 2016 at 3:00 pm
i was diagnosed pcos at 20 i am now 50 Type 2 diabetic will myo inosital help me? thanks
j williams
Awais Siddiqui
September 18, 2016 at 7:50 am
Thanks for great notes.My question is.can someone intake Myo inositol along with metformin.
Angelica
October 10, 2016 at 11:47 pm
Hi, Ive also purchase Pregnatude can I use along with Metformin or discontinue the Metformin?Ive had two treatments for ovulation with insemination and no luck
Angela Grassi
October 25, 2016 at 7:39 am
You can use it with metformin, although we recommend Ovasitol which doesn’t contain folic acid (up to 60% of women don’t metabolize it) and has the ideal 40:1 ratio of myo and dci. Ovasitol is cheaper than pregnitude as well.
Marie
November 19, 2016 at 8:27 am
I have PCOS and my fertility doctor told me about Ovasitol because I was not interested in starting Metformin. Unfortunately I only started drinking it a week before conception, so I can’t say if it had anything to do with us being able to become pregnant. I had started a grain and dairy free diet a few weeks before, so I actually credit that with conception rather than Ovasitol, although I can’t be positive. I took this suppliment twice daily all the way up until week 24 of my pregnancy, My insulin resistance and blood sugar was measured before conception, and sugars came back normal, insulin came back high, so I know I was insulin resistant to begin with. I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes at week 12, and have struggled with my numbers ever since, even while taking Ovasitol religiously and eating a better diet. I saw no change in my blood sugars. I was still bouncing between mid 90s and low 100s for my fasting sugars and getting into the 120s-130s post meals regardless. A few days after I stopped taking Ovasitol, I started eating 1 tablespoon raw virgin unrefined coconut oil each day. It has been a few weeks since I made this change, and since then my fasting numbers have dropped to mid 80s to low 90s every morning, while post meal numbers continue to improve. I can’t say that this will continue to be a solution, since I know hormones will change the closer to our due date, but in my case, I really haven’t seen any benifit from taking Ovasitol.
Trudy
January 28, 2017 at 10:18 pm
The picture shown says availble in the US, is this available in any other countries yet? Im in australia. I think I will ask my gp when i go next im on metformin and a few other things. 3 months in i havent seen much improvement still no period or weight loss. My appetite has supressed though i find im eating less which is great
Angela Grassi
January 30, 2017 at 8:51 am
Sorry, we only ship to customers in the US and Canada.
Katrina
February 15, 2017 at 12:38 pm
Hi, I was diagnosed with pcos when I was 16 and was on and off the pill for years. At 30 I decided I wanted a baby and stopped all contraception and was able to get pregnant within 10 days. I am now 41. I have been on metformin for years and have regular periods and I am ovulating. My husband and I are not really trying for a baby but not not trying for a baby. I have just started inositol in the hopes that I can become pregnant hopefully soon. Has anyone had luck with being on inositol and metformin or is it better to just take one?
Kristen Finnell
February 26, 2017 at 9:27 am
Hello,
I just want to post about my personal experience with Ovasitol because I am so grateful to have found out about its benefits when I did! I was diagnosed with PCOS when I was 18 years old, and I was on birth control for about 10 years after that. I was married in 2015 and stopped taking birth control in July 2015. After that, my cycles were completely unpredictable, ranging from 40-90 days between periods. I tried metformin, but I had terrible stomach upset and still did not have consist cycles, so I gave up after about 5 1/2 months. I heard about Ovasitol from reading blog posts and decided to give it a try. I began taking Ovasitol and prenatal vitamins daily in August 2016. I FINALLY had some consistency in cycles after about 2 months on the supplement. My cycles improved to about 40-45 days, and I just felt better overall! I began tracking my temperatures in November 2016, and after our FIRST attempt my husband and I conceived! I truly believe this has everything to do with Ovasitol and my own diligence to understand my body and PCOS. I am amazed and beyond thankful for this product!
I believe everyone with the diagnosis of PCOS should give it a try! It is a breakthrough treatment, and it is unfortunate that it is not more well-known at this point.
Kristen F.
Angela Grassi
February 26, 2017 at 1:46 pm
Fantastic Kristen! We are so happy for you! Best wishes for a healthy pregnancy!
Amy
March 14, 2017 at 12:12 pm
Does it help with weight loss?
Angela Grassi
March 14, 2017 at 12:14 pm
Amy, there are some studies that show inositol can result in weight loss and decreases to waist circumference but it’s not recommended as a weight loss supplement.
GOLO Review: Is it Really All it Claims to Be? | Aboutube.com
April 13, 2017 at 6:14 am
[…] Inositol is a substance similar to a vitamin found in many plants and animals, but can also be produced artificially. The substance is connected to insulin sensitivity and may help improve the body’s response to insulin. Inositol helps improve cell’s reactions to insulin, meaning they respond more quickly to glucose in the blood. (10,11) […]
Debi
May 4, 2017 at 7:50 pm
Hello. Would love to try this. Is it safe/OTC? Any known side effects? I will discuss it with my endocrinologist, as well. Thank you
Angela Grassi
May 5, 2017 at 11:29 am
Ovasitol is well tolerated!
Hayley Ninnes
May 29, 2017 at 2:26 pm
Hello,
Having been diagnosed with PCOS at 17 (I’m now 32) it frustrates me to no end that I have only been prescribed the OCP, Metformin or Aldactone. This looks very promising to me!
I am blessed to have three children and I’m not, nor have I ever been overweight. But, I have excess hair on my face + have had acne since I was 11. Will this help?
Thanks,
Hayley
Angela Grassi
May 30, 2017 at 9:26 am
Yes, inositol like in Ovasitol has been shown to reduce acne and lower testosterone. Worth a try!
Rashemah Quinn
June 9, 2017 at 10:58 am
Hello my name is Quinn
I’m 36 years old and I’m pre menstrual trying to reverse the curse
My doctor have me on 1000mg of metformin ive been taking since February 15th,2017 I’ve had a period in March and April, but no period in May. It’s now June, I purchased inositol to go with my metformin and my breast are sore from time to time
Should I take them together
I’m so desperate for a bundle of joy
Please help
Angela Grassi
June 9, 2017 at 2:13 pm
Yes, you can take ovasitol and metformin together. Best of luck!
Rita
June 14, 2017 at 4:09 pm
Hi, I took An Italian product That got these ingredients:
Maltodestrine, Myo-Inositolo, Ossido di Magnesio, Acidificante: Acido Citrico, Aroma, Edulcorante: Sucralosio, Vitamina B3 (Nicotinamide), Ossido di Zinco, Vitamina D3 (Colecalciferolo), Agente antiagglomerante: Biossido di silice, Vitamina B5 (Calcio D-Pantotenato), Vitamina B12 0,1% (Cianocobalamina), Vitamina B2 (Riboflavina), Vitamina B6 (Piridossina Cloridrato), Vitamina B1 (Tiamina Cloridrato), Acido Folico (Acido Pteroil-monoglutammico), Selenito di Sodio.
It contains myo-inositol … I’m on metformin for several years now and when I started to get this product changes my menstrual cycle completely!
Can myo-inositol act differently on other persons?
Thks
Rita
June 14, 2017 at 4:12 pm
Ps I would like to try this product but I’m afraid that my cycle will change again …
Angela Grassi
June 20, 2017 at 3:46 pm
Rita, most women see a positive change in their cycle. Worth a try!
pepG
June 27, 2017 at 8:30 pm
My experience with Ovasitol has been worse than metformin. With metformin I had some nausea & diarrhea when i first started & as I titrated myself to the prescribed dose of 1500mg but it only lasted a day or two. afterwards titration was over I had no issues. I thought I’d give ovasitol a try since most online pcos sites rave about it & there were “no side effects.” Wrong! i had worse bloating of my life,smelly gas, cramps, headaches, & horrible diarrhea. Supplements are not regulated & these people are marketing geniuses. I will stick with my metformin over ovasitol any day. It helped me ovulate & I don’t have to worry about sharting on my partner while it was babymaking time & I feel sexier when I don’t feel like a bloated whale 24/7.
Angela Grassi
June 29, 2017 at 8:30 am
We’re sorry you experienced side effects from Ovasitol. Most people do tolerate it well with minimal or no side effects.
Hollie
July 16, 2017 at 1:53 pm
Hi, I just wanted to clarify whether I can take Inositol as well as the Metformin? I can only tolerate 500mg Metformin a day.
Angela Grassi
July 26, 2017 at 8:13 am
Yes, you can take both together.
Karly
August 7, 2017 at 10:39 pm
Hi,
I am just learning about the significance of supplements in my (long) journey TTC. Ovasitol does sound like a promising alternative to Clomid/Metformin. Can it be taken in conjunction with some other supplements I’ve been reading about (Tribulus, Vitex, Conceptions Tea, etc.), or should it be taken alone? The information out there is overwhelming, and I don’t want to end up doing more harm than good! Any insight you can share would be much appreciated.
Angela Grassi
August 8, 2017 at 9:20 am
Ye, you can take Ovasitol with other supplements. The inositol in Ovasitol has good research. Those other supplements not so much. You may want to start with Ovasitol and see how you do and how your body responds before starting the others.
Maus
August 12, 2017 at 2:52 pm
Hi, I would just like to share my experience with pcos and inositol:
So I havent had a period in 10 months. Since 4 months I’ve been taking inositol (more or less 4grams a day, 2gr in morning and 2 gr before sleep, both on a empty stomach).Today I’ve had my first period!!! And it’s a real one (not just some brown discard). For real there were times I thought it might never come back.
Im 25 years old, not overweight at all, have a healthy lifestyle and diet, been studying (and using) supplements for years and really have no clue where it came from. ..
Some other supplements I took along were: B vitamin complex, flaxseed, zinc, magnesium and diatomaceous earth. I started doing yoga everyday about 4 months ago and did a full parasite cleanse some weeks ago, don’t know if that has anything to do with it though.
Anyway I wanted to let you know because am absolutely sure it was the inositol that did the the trick. I’m one of those few who’s not interested in having a baby or anything and also didn’t fit the criteria of “pcos patient” (only had few of the symptoms ). Maybe I just had to connect more with my female side and I”ll keep on working on that.
Good luck to you all, everyone has the capacity to heal themselves! !
Janelle
August 22, 2017 at 12:09 pm
Hi so I was diagnosed with pcos over 10 years ago and have been ttc for just over 8 years. No births, no losses and I’m just now taking control over my weight. I’m 31 and I’m determined to lose 100lbs. I have 1000mg myo inositol pills and I’m trying to figure out what the difference between all the other inositol supplements are. It seems like all the research I do takes me no where. Ive always been irregular and never know if or when I ovulate so not only am I wanting to take myo inositol for that but to lose weight. Any advice or suggestions appreciated.
Angela Grassi
August 23, 2017 at 11:29 am
Hi Janelle,
A combination of Myo to D-chiro inositol in a 40:1 ratio can help regulate cycles, promote ovulation, and reduce insulin. We recommend Ovasitol which has this ratio. Here are some articles about it. For best results, take 2 grams of myo (or one packet of Ovasitol) twice a day with food.
http://www.pcosnutrition.com/inositol/
http://www.pcosnutrition.com/combination-of-myo-inositol-and-d-chiro-inositol-for-pcos/
http://www.pcosnutrition.com/introducing-ovasitol-the-first-combined-myo-and-d-chiro-inositol-supplement-in-the-u-s/
Let me know if I can answer any questions for you!
Angela Grassi, MS, RDN, LDN
AJ
October 5, 2017 at 9:10 am
I have pcos. I don’t wish to have any more children. I have struggled with weight all my life. I seem to have to diet and workout twice as much as anyone I know, will ovasital help me with the weight loss?
Or do u have a better solution?
Angela Grassi
October 5, 2017 at 1:54 pm
There isn’t one pill that will cause weight loss. Ovasitol can bring down insulin and can help with cravings so could help to make better food choices. Another supplement to consider is berberine for reducing insulin: http://www.pcosnutrition.com/product/berberine-pcos-nutrition-center/
Martha Lopez
November 4, 2017 at 2:23 am
I was diagnosed with PCOS at age 18, I am now 28 and I am trying to conceive. I have changed my diet and began exercising atleast three times a week and have noticed some changes in my menstrual cycle. They have been been consecutive for the last five months, but my cycles went from 31 days to now 41 days. Would I have to take this with anything else?
Angela Grassi
November 13, 2017 at 9:36 am
Hi Martha,
It’s hard to say what else contributed to your delayed cycle this month-stress, lack of sleep, exercise and diet can all affect it. Ovasitol has shown to improve menstrual regularity.
Stephanie
November 16, 2017 at 1:19 pm
Is there any impact on the liver? So in PCOS patients with liver disease, will it further tax the liver? Thanks!
Angela Grassi
November 16, 2017 at 3:37 pm
No, it is a relative of the b-vitamins so water soluble, not toxic to liver.
Sarah
March 3, 2018 at 12:30 am
Hi I follow posts and suffer with PCOS. Unfortunately have been suffering for years and now 30. I have tried Inofolic for 3 months and recently started Ovasitol. I haven’t unfortunately had any improvements – still don’t have regular periods and have tried clomid, letrazole and had no luck. I don’t ovulate. IVF is the only option left for me which I am struggling to go for due to weight gain.
My question is Ovasitol – how long shall I continue using it for – from your experience before I see any benefits. I have already use 3months supply , I know this varies from person to person but I am very desperate and not sure if I need to continue. It is very pricey but I am willing to try anything at this point.
Also used metformin in past but not seen any change. Are there are evidence to show Ovasitol and metformin working well together?
Any advice be greatly appreciated
Angela Grassi
March 4, 2018 at 9:44 pm
Hi Sarah, every woman is different. I am sorry you haven’t gotten your period yet. There are so many factors that affect ovulation. Ovasitol can still improve egg quality so if you do go the IVF route, you may have some good eggs! You could give Ovasitol another 3 months. Other things to look for with Ovasitol is a reduction in HA1C levels, cravings, improved hormone levels. Hope this helps!
Angela Grassi
March 4, 2018 at 9:45 pm
Sarah, here is an article about metformin and Ovasitol. The two can be taken together and work differently http://www.pcosnutrition.com/metforminandinositol/
Alli
April 3, 2018 at 10:20 am
Could one take ovasitol and metformin simultaneously?
Angela Grassi
April 5, 2018 at 2:48 pm
Yes, you can take ovasitol and metformin together.
Farwa Javed
April 27, 2018 at 11:55 am
If Ovasitol not available then what to do to treat the symptoms of PCOS.?
Angela Grassi
May 18, 2018 at 4:08 pm
Look for myo inositol.
lira
May 25, 2018 at 8:33 am
can i take metformin and ovastitol altogether?
Angela Grassi
May 25, 2018 at 9:46 am
yes, you can take metformin and Ovasitol together.
Imesa Jones
June 26, 2018 at 12:42 am
Do it help when trying to get pregnant
Angela Grassi
July 8, 2018 at 7:30 am
yes it does!
Karen estevez
June 28, 2018 at 2:17 pm
Can i mix ovasitol with grapefruit juice or sprinkle it over my food?
Angela Grassi
July 8, 2018 at 7:29 am
You can mix in grapefruit juice but needs to be dissolved in a liquid, not sprinkled.
Anja
July 19, 2018 at 5:46 pm
Hi! I have lean PCOS with normal fasting insulin and blood sugar, taking 1000mg of metformin for help with ovulation. I just ordered ovasitol after reading a lot about its success with help in ovulation for PCOS patients. I saw that you take them concurrently? How much ovasitol do you take?
Thankyou!
Angela Grassi
August 7, 2018 at 4:22 pm
It is recommended to take Ovasitol 2x/day, at breakfast and dinner
Sam
August 4, 2018 at 8:55 am
Hi there,
My periods were irregular for months after coming off birth control. I was finally diagnosed with PCOS about two months ago, my doc recommended me to take clomid and metformin. I first wanted to give ovaositol a shot. The first month I got my period back, second month I found out I am PREGNANT! (Three days ago!!)
My concern now is my doc wants to put me on metformin to reduce chances of miscarriage, but I don’t want to go off ovaistol. I know you’ve mentioned quite a few times it’s ok to take both but I’ve read conflicting info. Many people say it can have additive effects as the two function similarly. Can you tell me a bit more on the research/Info about how it’s safe to take them together?
Angela Grassi
August 7, 2018 at 3:52 pm
Yes, you can take Ovasitol at the same time as metformin. They work differently. You may also want to ask your doctor about letrozole as it has been shown to be superior to clomid for PCOS women.
Chanel
September 16, 2018 at 8:22 pm
I have a luteal phase defect along with being insulin resistant… I take Bio identical progesterone because I’m suffering from hair loss, extreme fatigue, severe muscle aches and severe acne! I was taking inositol and did see a dramatic difference…. I’m thinking I should take it again because I think I’m suffering from peripheral neuropathy because I have severe sensitivity in my hands and feet, I also have tingling ,I’m very tired and weak a sense well.
Angela Grassi
September 18, 2018 at 5:05 pm
Have you had your levels of vitamin B12 checked? You are describing symptoms similar to that of a B12 deficiency. Here’s more info: http://www.pcosnutrition.com/vitaminb12/
Michel-le’
September 26, 2018 at 5:04 am
Hi there. Where can one find ovasitol in South Africa? Or can couriers be done to SA?
Angela Grassi
October 3, 2018 at 2:17 pm
Contact Theralogix the makers of Ovasitol directly.
teachersrule21
April 15, 2019 at 8:27 pm
Can I take the Ovasitol along with the Berberine?
Angela Grassi
April 16, 2019 at 8:03 am
Yes you can
Devi
January 30, 2020 at 2:55 pm
Hi,
I was just curious if the full dose of Ovasitol is safe to take along with 2000mg of Metformin (Glumetza)?
I know twice I’ve had a sudden onset of queasiness.. but I’m not sure if this is the culprit.
What do you think?
Thank you kindly in advance,
Angela Grassi
February 1, 2020 at 12:57 pm
Yes, you can take the two together.
Melanie
March 4, 2020 at 10:13 am
Berberine is more effective than inositol and metformin.
erica
April 10, 2020 at 1:47 pm
Do you have any citation for this study or link to this study mentioned in the paragraph?
Angela Grassi
April 15, 2020 at 9:32 am
yes, please see references at the bottom of page.
Myrna
May 22, 2020 at 12:52 am
Can I take berberine with ovasital?
How long can someone take these supplements??
Angela Grassi
May 22, 2020 at 3:23 pm
You can take these supplements long therm as long as they work for you and you tolerate ok.
Bernadette Kenaghan
September 17, 2020 at 3:51 pm
i am in my 50s i have pcos for many years and i have never been given any medication i have been trying to lose weight gor a longctime and nothing has happened also my partner and i want to have a baby is that a pissability pkwase let me know
Rebecca
November 28, 2020 at 11:52 am
Could you please share the source for this:
“Gynecology and Endocrinology, 120 PCOS women trying to conceive took 1500 mg metformin vs 4 g myo + 400 mcg folic acid daily. Their results: women who took myo inositol had a better ovulation (65% vs. 50%) and pregnancy rate (30% vs. 18%) compared with the women who took metformin.”
I am trying to locate the study for research. Thank you 🙂
Angela Grassi
December 31, 2020 at 10:25 am
Here you go! https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20222840/
Lea
May 1, 2021 at 5:02 pm
Can you take metformin (1000 mg) with the Myo-DCI Inositol? On forums it says it can lower your blood sugar too much. My daughter has PCOS and is on metformin but I think the inositol would really help her.
Angela Grassi
May 4, 2021 at 10:02 am
Ovasitol can be taken with Metformin. Both have the potential to lower blood sugar but most people tolerate it fine. If you do try it, I recommend starting with one dose a day of ovasitol for a week or so before adding the second dose.
Sanja K
June 15, 2021 at 3:07 pm
Can Ovasitol be taken on an empty stomach? I’m currently trying intermittent fasting so having it with food is not always an option.
Angela Grassi
July 26, 2021 at 2:18 pm
Ovsitol should be taken with food.
Hanna
January 18, 2022 at 12:17 am
Hi I have pcos and also IC ( interstecial cystitis) and would like to know if there is any medication interactions?
Angela Grassi
January 27, 2022 at 2:59 pm
No, you should be fine to take Ovasitol.
Trisha
May 6, 2022 at 11:18 pm
Hi, im 31 and I’ve been diagnosed with pcos for almost 5yrs now, I have all the symptoms ranging from excessive hair growth to infertility. Ive ttc for the last 4yrs with no luck and I’ve even gone as far as to try 6 rounds of iui and still no luck. Prior to being diagnosed I have never had a normal period, I would go months without seeing it, and then suddenly itd be on an off every other 2 weeks- extremely heavy, extremely painful. Then it just stopped cold turkey, its going on 9-10yrs with out a natural period ,only ever brought on with medication. Ive had 3 chemical pregnancies an Dec I decided I had enough heartbreak an quit my fertility treatments tho I still take 1500mg of metformin daily to prevent pre-diabetes. I really don’t want to just throw in the towel and give up.
Metformin doesn’t seem to be doing much of anything anymore, infact I’ve gained more weight on it then I ever did off it. I started this journey weighing in at around 185, and now I’m almost 100lbs heavier at 260- eating healthier and being active does nothing to melt it off, but im afraid stopping it or changing to something else would be moot or just a repeat or worse.
I’ve purchased Ovasitol an am waiting on delivery im wondering if I should add it to the metformin and if so how much metformin is safe. Or should I stop the metformin an switch 100%
I also must add that recently my liver has taken the spot light an im due to have an ultrasound in a few days to observe any issues , I have a suspicion that the metformin is to blame since I had no issues prior, I am concerned and seeking guidance as I am truly committed to giving ovasitol a chance.
Angela Grassi
June 3, 2022 at 9:07 am
Hi Trisha, I am so sorry for your struggles. Ovasitol can be taken with Metformin. Here is an article in which I review taking both: https://www.pcosnutrition.com/ovasitol-review-pcos/
Also an article on fatty liver which can be reversed with lifestyle changes. https://www.pcosnutrition.com/fattyliver/
I do provide one-on-one nutrition coaching for PCOS if you are interested.
Julia
July 9, 2023 at 1:06 pm
What are your thoughts with using inositol with a semaglutide?
Angela Grassi
July 28, 2023 at 4:31 pm
Julia, the combo hasn’t been studied in PCOS or other populations yet. I have had plenty of patients who take both without issues.