Randomised trial, 2009
Does duloxetine help treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder?
Yes. 65% of the 20 women improved by at least 50%, with statistically significant overall symptom reduction. However, this was a small uncontrolled pilot study, so larger research is needed to confirm results.
What they did
20 women with PMDD took 60 mg of duloxetine daily for three menstrual cycles. Before treatment started, they had two confirmation cycles including one on placebo. Doctors measured their symptoms before and after.
What they found
65% of women had at least a 50% reduction in symptoms. Symptom scores dropped significantly in the first cycle and stayed improved throughout (p=0.0002). Functional impairment and quality of life also improved. Common side effects were dry mouth, nausea, drowsiness, insomnia, decreased appetite, decreased libido, and sweating.
What it means for you
Duloxetine may help PMDD symptoms, and side effects were generally mild with benefits lasting throughout treatment. However, this was a small uncontrolled pilot study. Larger double-blind placebo-controlled studies are needed.
65%
Women with at least 50% symptom reduction
20
Number of women
3
Menstrual cycles of treatment
About the study
- Original title
- Duloxetine treatment for women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder: a single-blind trial
- Authors
- Ramos MG, Hara C, Rocha FL
- Journal
- The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology
- Year
- 2009
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 20
- What was tested
- Duloxetine 60 mg daily for three menstrual cycles
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1017/s1461145709000066
Topics
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