Review, 2002
What treatments work best for PMS and PMDD?
Ovulation suppression and SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants) are the two most effective treatments. SSRIs work particularly well for PMDD and can be taken only during the luteal phase of the cycle.
What they did
Review of published literature on treatments for PMS and PMDD, focusing on treatments based on understanding of the conditions' causes (ovulation-related hormonal changes and serotonin abnormalities).
What they found
Treatment is necessary in approximately 2-10% of women with PMS and PMDD. Ovulation suppression is effective for a wide range of PMS symptoms. SSRIs are effective for PMDD and have some efficacy for physical symptoms. SSRIs work well when used intermittently, only during the luteal phase.
What it means for you
Two proven effective treatments exist: one targets hormones, the other targets serotonin. SSRIs are particularly practical because they can be taken just during the luteal phase rather than daily. This is a review of existing literature, not new research.
2-10%
of women with PMS and PMDD needing treatment
About the study
- Original title
- Pharmacotherapy of premenstrual syndromes and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: current practices
- Authors
- Mitwally MF, Kahn LS, Halbreich U
- Journal
- Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy
- Year
- 2002
- Study design
- Review
- What was tested
- Ovulation suppression, SSRI antidepressants
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1517/14656566.3.11.1577
Topics
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