Non-randomised trial, 1984
Is bromocriptine an effective treatment for PMS, and does the timing of doses matter?
Bromocriptine, especially when taken cyclically (only part of the menstrual cycle), helped relieve PMS symptoms, particularly breast pain. However, side effects occurred in 43% of women and 21% stopped taking the medication.
What they did
268 women with PMS symptoms, especially breast symptoms, were treated with bromocriptine in two ways for three menstrual cycles. Some took it continuously at 1.25 mg twice daily every day. Others took it cyclically at 1.25 mg once daily from cycle day 11-13, then 1.25 mg twice daily from cycle day 14 until menstruation.
What they found
Bromocriptine was most effective for breast symptoms. Cyclical treatment was more effective than continuous treatment for breast swelling and pain. Side effects occurred in 43% of patients and 21% stopped treatment due to side effects. There was no difference in side effects between continuous and cyclical treatment. Seventy percent of patients considered the bromocriptine treatment good or fairly good.
What it means for you
Bromocriptine can help with PMS, especially breast pain, and cyclical dosing may work better than taking it every day. However, side effects are common and some women have to stop treatment, so this is important context when deciding about this medication.
268
women treated
43%
experienced side effects
21%
stopped treatment
About the study
- Original title
- Cyclical or continuous treatment of the premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with bromocriptine
- Authors
- Ylöstalo P
- Journal
- European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology
- Year
- 1984
- Study design
- Non-randomised trial
- What was tested
- Bromocriptine at 1.25 mg, given continuously or cyclically for three cycles
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/0028-2243(84)90112-6
Topics
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