Randomised trial, 2005
Does paroxetine taken only during the luteal phase help premenstrual dysphoric disorder?
Yes. Both doses of paroxetine CR (12.5 mg and 25 mg) taken during the luteal phase were significantly better than placebo.
What they did
Randomized controlled trial across multiple centers. 373 women with PMDD were randomly assigned to one of three groups: placebo, 12.5 mg paroxetine CR, or 25 mg paroxetine CR, all taken only during the luteal phase, for three cycles.
What they found
Both paroxetine CR doses significantly improved mood during the luteal phase compared to placebo. Both doses also improved most measures of symptom severity and functioning. The medication was generally well tolerated.
What it means for you
Paroxetine CR taken during only the luteal phase is an effective treatment for PMDD. Both doses tested work well. Like sertraline, you do not take this medication every day, which may reduce side effects and costs compared to daily treatment.
373
Participants
2
Paroxetine doses tested
About the study
- Original title
- Luteal phase dosing with paroxetine controlled release (CR) in the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Authors
- Steiner M, Hirschberg AL, Bergeron R et al.
- Journal
- American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
- Year
- 2005
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- What was tested
- Paroxetine CR 12.5 mg or 25 mg daily during luteal phase, versus placebo
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.ajog.2005.01.021
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