From the Guidelines
Myo-inositol supplementation is recommended for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to improve fertility, with a typical dosage of 2-4 grams daily, as it has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate hormonal balance. According to a recent study published in 2022 1, myo-inositol may play a role in the management of cardiometabolic and reproductive deregulation in PCOS. The study highlights the importance of dietary intake of core food groups that contain inositol, including beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, which may be lower in women with PCOS.
Key Considerations
- Myo-inositol supplementation may improve ovulation rates, egg quality, and menstrual regularity in women with PCOS by enhancing insulin function and regulating hormonal balance.
- The recommended dosage is 2-4 grams daily, often divided into two doses, with treatment duration of at least 3-6 months for potential benefits.
- Myo-inositol is frequently combined with 200-400 mcg of folic acid, and some formulations include a 40:1 ratio of myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol.
- Side effects are generally mild and may include nausea, headache, or digestive discomfort.
Clinical Implications
- Myo-inositol supplementation should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to fertility that includes proper nutrition, exercise, and medical supervision, especially if you're taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.
- Women with PCOS should be aware of the potential benefits of myo-inositol supplementation and discuss it with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.
- Further research is needed to confirm the observations and to understand the role of myo-inositol in the management of PCOS, as noted in the study published in 2022 1.
From the Research
Myo-Inositol for Infertility
- Myo-inositol has been studied as a potential treatment for infertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 2, 3, 4.
- A randomized controlled trial found that myo-inositol and melatonin improved oocyte and embryo quality in PCOS patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) 3.
- Another study found that myo-inositol combined with folic acid restored spontaneous ovarian activity and fertility in 88% of PCOS patients, with 40% achieving singleton pregnancies 4.
- However, a study comparing the effectiveness of myo-inositol and metformin in infertile PCOS women found that the addition of myo-inositol and metformin to letrozole treatment improved ovarian function, but not significantly 2.
- Myo-inositol is considered a promising treatment for infertility in PCOS patients, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects 5, 6.
Mechanism of Action
- Myo-inositol is thought to improve insulin receptor activity, restoring normal ovulatory function in PCOS patients 4.
- It may also enhance oocyte and embryo quality, increasing the chances of successful IVF outcomes 3.
Comparison to Other Treatments
- Myo-inositol has been compared to metformin, with some studies suggesting that myo-inositol may be more effective in patients with normal body mass index (BMI) 2.
- Clomiphene citrate and letrozole are also commonly used treatments for infertility in PCOS patients, but myo-inositol may offer a safer and more effective alternative 5, 6.