Survey study, 2023
What causes PMDD?
PMDD involves progesterone and brain chemistry. When progesterone converts to a substance called allopregnanolone in the brain, it affects how GABA receptors (brain cells that create calming signals) respond, which may trigger PMDD.
What they did
This is a review article that examined existing research on the biological mechanisms of PMDD. The authors summarized evidence about how progesterone and brain chemistry relate to PMDD and discussed possible new treatments targeting these mechanisms.
What they found
Evidence shows that PMDD involves altered conversion of progesterone to allopregnanolone in the brain and changed sensitivity of the GABA system (the brain's calming chemical system). Three potential treatment approaches were identified: using allopregnanolone antagonists, blocking progesterone conversion to allopregnanolone, or restoring GABA system sensitivity.
What it means for you
PMDD appears to stem from specific brain chemistry involving progesterone. New treatments being explored would target these biological mechanisms. This summarizes what is already known from research, not new findings.
3
Potential treatment mechanisms described
About the study
- Original title
- The role of neurosteroids in the development of premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Authors
- D. A. Lutskaya, Tea A. Dzhibladze, D. S. Petelin et al.
- Journal
- Russian Bulletin of Obstetrician-Gynecologist
- Year
- 2023
- Study design
- Survey study
- What was tested
- None. This is a literature review of biological mechanisms.
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.17116/rosakush20232303156
Topics
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