Randomised trial, 2003

What treatments work for PMS and PMDD?

Several treatments work. Non-drug options include cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise, and supplements like calcium and magnesium. Many studies support SSRIs (taken daily or only before menstruation). Hormonal treatments that stop ovulation also help.

Strong study design People with severe PMS and PMDD from multiple published studies

What they did

Published research from 20 years was reviewed to identify treatments for severe PMS and PMDD, examining both non-drug and drug approaches.

What they found

Non-drug treatments with evidence include cognitive behavioral relaxation therapy, aerobic exercise, calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, L-tryptophan, and complex carbohydrate drinks. At least 10 randomized controlled trials support SSRIs taken daily or premenstrually. Serotonergic tricyclic antidepressants also work. Hormonal treatments including GnRH analogs with hormone add-back, danazol, and estradiol implants or patches with progestin showed good evidence. Preliminary evidence supports a new oral contraceptive with drospirenone (Yasmin) for reducing water retention.

What it means for you

There are many treatment options ranging from lifestyle changes to medication. Standard oral contraceptive pills with older progestins may not help and can cause PMS-like symptoms, so newer options need more study.

10+

randomized controlled trials supporting SSRIs

About the study

Original title: A review of treatment of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Authors: Rapkin A
Journal: Psychoneuroendocrinology
Year: 2003
Study design: Randomised trial
What was tested: Cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise, supplements, SSRIs, hormonal therapies
Read the paper: doi.org/10.1016/s0306-4530(03)00096-9

Topics

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)Low mood and depression Bloating, breast tenderness and physical symptoms SSRIs and antidepressants Oral contraceptives and drospirenone GnRH agonists and ovarian suppression Estradiol, progesterone and hormone therapy Cognitive behavioral therapy Exercise and yoga Calcium Magnesium Diuretics and other drugs

Systematic review, 2007

What treatments work for premenstrual syndrome?

Study, 2002

Which PMS treatments have good scientific evidence?

Survey study, 2026

What are the causes, diagnosis, and treatments for PMS and PMDD?

Review, 2006

What treatments work for premenstrual disorders?

Randomised trial, 2000

What non-antidepressant treatments might help PMS?

Study, 2022

What are the symptoms, causes, and treatments of PMS and PMDD?

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