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Randomised trial, 1990

Does fluvoxamine help menstrually related mood disorders?

No, this small study found that fluvoxamine did not work better than placebo for menstrually related mood disorders. Both improved symptoms equally.

Early or limited evidence 20 women with premenstrual complaints

What they did

A double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 20 women with premenstrual complaints. Women were treated with fluvoxamine or placebo over two consecutive menstrual cycles.

What they found

Both fluvoxamine and placebo produced beneficial effects on physical and emotional symptoms. Fluvoxamine was not different from placebo.

What it means for you

This study suggests that serotonin may not be the main cause of menstrually related mood symptoms. However, the study was very small with only 20 women and just two menstrual cycles, so larger studies are needed before drawing firm conclusions.

20

Women with premenstrual complaints

2

Consecutive menstrual cycles tested

About the study

Original title
Fluvoxamine in the treatment of menstrually related mood disorders
Authors
Veeninga AT, Westenberg HG, Weusten JT
Journal
Psychopharmacology
Year
1990
Study design
Randomised trial
What was tested
Fluvoxamine vs placebo

Topics