Inositol

A supplement with the largest evidence base for PMOS, usually myo-inositol with a small share of d-chiro-inositol. Studied for insulin sensitivity and ovulation.

In review

Inositol is a naturally occurring compound involved in how cells respond to insulin. As a supplement, it has the largest evidence base of any over-the-counter option for PMOS.

The most-studied form is myo-inositol combined with a small proportion of d-chiro-inositol, often in roughly a 40-to-1 ratio. Multiple randomised trials and meta-analyses report improvements in insulin sensitivity, androgen levels, and ovulation rates over three to six months in many users. The side-effect profile is favourable.

Inositol is available without a prescription in most places. It is not a guaranteed result for everyone, and response varies. Pregnancy and active conception are contexts where a clinician should be in the loop. As with the rest of the metabolic toolkit, it works best alongside the foundational steps, not instead of them.

See also
Sources
  1. Teede HJ, Misso ML, Costello MF, et al. International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Monash University Centre for Research Excellence in PCOS. 2023.
Note

Draft definition, pending clinical review.

This is plain-language definition copy, not medical advice. For decisions about your care, talk to a clinician who knows your history.