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Survey study, 2023

Could treatments that affect the brain's GABA system help PMDD?

This review suggests GABA system changes may cause PMDD symptoms. Three compounds being tested in early clinical trials show promise, but much larger studies are needed to confirm if they work.

Early or limited evidence Not applicable; this is a literature review

What they did

This was a literature review examining research on allopregnanolone (a brain chemical) and the GABA system's role in PMDD. It discussed several compounds being tested in early clinical trials for PMDD treatment.

What they found

The review found evidence that changes in allopregnanolone and GABA signaling during the luteal phase may cause mood problems in people susceptible to PMDD. Three compounds showed promising results in early clinical trials: dutasteride, isoallopregnanolone, and ulipristal acetate.

What it means for you

This review proposes a biological explanation for PMDD that could lead to new treatments. These are early findings discussed in a review article, not results from a large clinical trial. Much more research is needed to confirm if these compounds are safe and effective.

3

compounds with promising early trial results discussed

About the study

Original title
GABA-ergic Modulators: New Therapeutic Approaches to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors
Sikes-Keilp C, Rubinow DR
Journal
CNS drugs
Year
2023
Study design
Survey study
What was tested
Compounds discussed in review (not tested): dutasteride, isoallopregnanolone, ulipristal acetate

Topics