Inositol treatment of anovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis of randomised trials

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common cause of anovulation and infertility, and a risk factor for development of metabolic syndrome and endometrial cancer.Objectives: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials that evaluated the effects of inositol as an ovulation-induction agent. Search Strategy:We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane and ISI conference proceedings, Register and Meta-register for RCTs and WHO trials' search portal. Selection Criteria:We included studies that compared inositol with placebo or other ovulation induction agents.Data Collection and Analysis: Quality of studies was assessed for risk of bias.Results were pooled using random effects meta-analysis and findings were reported as relative risk or standardized mean differences. Main Results:We included 10 randomised trials.Total women on inositol were 362 (myoinositol = 257; di-chiro-inositol = 105), placebo were 179 and metformin were 60.Inositol was associated with significantly improved ovulation rate (RR 2.3; 95% CI 1.1, 4.7; I2 = 75%) and increased frequency of menstrual cycles (RR 6.8; 95% CI 2.8, 16.6; I2 = 0%)