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Metformin vs. Spironolactone for PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 1 in 10 women and can cause a frustrating mix of symptoms: irregular periods, acne, excess facial or body hair, scalp hair thinning, weight gain, and fertility struggles.

Two of the most commonly prescribed medications for PCOS are metformin and spironolactone. But how do they work, and which one is right for you?

Let’s break it down.

💊 What Is Metformin?

Metformin is a medication traditionally used for type 2 diabetes, but it’s also widely prescribed for PCOS — especially when insulin resistance is a factor.

Metformin works by:

  • Reducing how much sugar the liver produces
  • Improving the body’s insulin sensitivity
  • Lowering circulating insulin and testosterone levels

Benefits of metformin in PCOS:

  • More regular periods
  • Improved ovulation and fertility
  • Modest weight loss
  • Lower risk of diabetes over time

👉 Shop oral metformin at Oana Health

💊 What Is Spironolactone?

Spironolactone is an anti-androgen medication. It blocks the effect of male hormones (androgens) like testosterone on the skin and hair follicles.

In PCOS, excess androgens can cause:

  • Persistent acne
  • Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
  • Scalp hair thinning (female pattern hair loss)

Spironolactone works by:

  • Blocking androgen receptors
  • Reducing oil production in the skin
  • Slowing the growth of unwanted facial and body hair

👉 Explore spironolactone at Oana Health

⚖️ Metformin vs. Spironolactone: Which Should You Choose?

Your Goal or SymptomBest OptionRegulate periodsMetforminImprove fertilityMetformin (sometimes combined with ovulation meds)Weight managementMetformin + lifestyle changesReduce acne/facial hairSpironolactoneAddress hair thinningSpironolactone (or combine with oral minoxidil)

🌟 Best of Both Worlds: The Combo Approach

Many women with PCOS benefit from both medications together — metformin to address metabolic and reproductive symptoms, and spironolactone to target skin and hair concerns.

👉 Shop Oana Health’s Metformin + Spironolactone bundle — get personalized, affordable care delivered right to your door.

⚠️ Side Effects to Know

  • Metformin: Nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach (usually improves over time)
  • Spironolactone: Increased urination, breast tenderness, occasional menstrual changes (often paired with birth control for cycle regulation)

Final Takeaway

Metformin and spironolactone are powerful — but they work on different parts of PCOS. Metformin focuses on insulin resistance and fertility, while spironolactone improves skin, hair, and androgen-driven symptoms.

The best results often come from a personalized combination plan — and Oana makes it simple to get both in one convenient bundle.

👉 Order the Metformin + Spironolactone pack here
👉 Order Metformin alone here

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