These statements are provided for educational purposes only. Stamatiadis, D., Bulteau-Portois, M. C., & Mowszowicz, I. Retrieved from http://www.eje-online.org/content/147/2/217. Kelly, C. J., & Gordon, D. (2002). In approximately 90% of hirsute women, the condition either is caused by an underlying polycystic ovarian syndrome or is idiopathic (of unknown cause).Regardless of the source, patients are always looking for options to help with unwanted hair, and even when the commercial product is available, it may not address everyone’s clinical need.

A few studies have examined the influence of metformin on hirsutism as the primary end point. Some recent data suggest that insulin sensitizers may also be beneficial in decreasing hirsutism score. Certainly we should look at balancing the hormones or metabolic disorders, but many times a quick solution is needed. He also provides specific formulation information geared toward providing relief. Very recently, systemic usage of metformin for psoriasis and skin malignancies has shown promising results.Interestingly, though, topical metformin has also been used in hyperpigmentation disorders. Rezvanian, H., Adibi, N., Siavash, M., Kachuei, A., Shojaee-Moradie, F., & Asilian, A.

Combining this with new research demonstrating a local effect when applied topically for hyperpigmentation, it’s not too far of a stretch to hypothesize that applying metformin topically may inhibit and reduce terminal hair growth.2Similar thinking is used for some commercial products. In this article, our three experts cover this all-too-important topic in the HRT conversation, on what current literature says about the usage of oral vs. topical estrogen discussion.

Studies of the local effect of metformin on the growth rate of hair at the follicular level have yet to be investigated. One of the proposed mechanisms for reducing pigmentation involves inhibiting the activity of protein kinase C beta (PKC-β).

Metformin or Antiandrogen in the Treatment of Hirsutism in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome LYNDAL HARBORNE, RICHARD FLEMING, HELEN LYALL, NAVEED SATTAR, AND JANE NORMAN University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom G31 2ER Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 134(10), 2589-2597. https://doi.org/10.1038/jid.2014.202Stay up to date with what's happening in our pharmacyOffice: 3200 Downwood Circle NW, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30327OptiCleanse GHI Vanilla Delight Sugar & Stevia Free by XymogenEstrodim Capsules, 60 Count by Ortho Molecular Products, IncOptiCleanse GHI Creamy Chocolate Sugar & Stevia Free by XymogenAn Innovative Treatment for Hirsutism: Topical Metformin A review of eflornithine (Vaniqa®) and the studies that were used in the approval process reveals that the studies were done with both oral and topical eflornithine, but that the mechanism of action in topical application is unknown. Stay current on PCCA news and events, market trends, and all things compounding! Effects of insulin and insulin-like growth factors on cultured human hair follicles: IGF-I at physiologic concentrations is an important regulator of hair follicle growth in vitro.

Indian Journal of Dermatology, 55(1), 3-7. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5154.6034211.

A few studies have examined the influence of metformin on hirsutism as the primary end point. The hair does not grow during this phase, and melanin production stops.• Metformin HCl 5%/Progesterone 1%/Azelaic Acid 1%/ Spironolactone 5% Topical Cream (Clarifying™)• Metformin HCl 5%/Progesterone 1%/Azelaic Acid 1% Topical Cream (VersaBase®)If you have questions about compounding for hirsutism, please contact Reposted: By Sara Hover, RPh, FAARM, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist PCCA May 2018 Apothagram1. Specific sites for excess hair are lips, chin, and chest. However, studies have shown that hair follicles that are exposed to excessive levels of insulin exhibit a higher growth rate.

Metformin is now the first line treatment for restoring cyclicity and ovulation in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, 48, 49 the accompanying improvement in glucose utilization may also play a part in ameliorating the symptoms in HS.