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Review, 1987

Does spironolactone, a water pill, help with premenstrual syndrome symptoms?

Some well-designed studies found that spironolactone helped reduce bloating and belly swelling during PMS. It may also improve mood and emotional symptoms.

Early or limited evidence Women with premenstrual syndrome

What they did

This was a review of studies and theories about the role of water retention in PMS and whether water pills, particularly spironolactone, help treat it.

What they found

Well-conducted studies showed that diuretics, especially spironolactone, relieved bloatedness and abdominal distension. Improvements in emotional symptoms were also reported.

What it means for you

Spironolactone may help some PMS symptoms, even though the link to water retention is still not fully proven. The main limitation is that this review is based on a limited number of studies.

About the study

Original title
Effect of spironolactone on premenstrual syndrome symptoms
Authors
Vellacott ID, O'Brien PM
Journal
The Journal of reproductive medicine
Year
1987
Study design
Review
What was tested
Spironolactone (a diuretic)

Topics