Q: I am a 28 years old pregnant women. Before pregnancy, I used to take Metformin due to irregular periods. My doctor has asked me to continue using the drug even during pregnancy. Is it safe and how long should I continue taking it? Further, how much folic acid should I take daily?

A:Metformin is actually a drug used in the treatment of diabetes. It is not given for only irregular periods. It is given to non-diabetic women who suffer from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) to improve insulin sensitivity. In PCOS also periods can become irregular. However, once pregnancy is established, Metformin should be immediately discontinued in women with PCOS. The dose of Folic acid has a very wide range from 500 mcg to 5 mg (5000 mcg). In patients of PCOS, a higher dose is recommended.