EJMS

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effect of combining clomiphene with chromium picolinate supplementation on ovulation induction in clomiphene citrate (CC)-resistant patients with polycytic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Subjects and Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 100 infertile females with CC-resistant PCOS randomized into two equal groups. Patients of CC Group received CC, 100 mg/day for 5 days starting from day 3 of the menstrual cycle for 3 cycles. For Chrm Group, chromium picolinate, 1000 μg/day for 3 cycles was added to CC. The primary outcome measure was the ovulation rate after 3-cycle treatment. Secondary outcome measures were post-treatment levels of insulin, FSH and LH. Results: After 3-cycle treatment, Chrm Group showed significantly lower levels of FSH and LH (p < 0.001) compared to CC group with no significant difference in fasting insulin levels (p = 0.322). In the two groups, treatment resulted in significant reduction of the 3 hormones. Significantly higher percent reduction of the three hormones was found in Chrm Group. Ovulation rate was significantly higher after 3-cycle course of treatment (p = 0.003) in Chrm groups (RR, 1.94; 95%CI: 1.23-3.07). Conclusion: In patients with PCOS resistant to CC, Chromium supplementation as an adjuvant to CC improves ovulation and significantly reduces fasting insulin, LH and FSH.