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Guideline, 2006

What is the best treatment for PMDD and severe PMS?

SSRIs are first-line therapy for PMDD and severe PMS. They can be taken continuously throughout the month, only during the luteal phase, or with higher doses in the late luteal phase depending on each person.

Moderate study design Women with PMDD, severe PMS, and related mood or anxiety conditions

What they did

Expert guidelines presenting practical treatment recommendations for SSRIs in women with PMDD or severe PMS, including those with mood or anxiety disorders.

What they found

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have emerged as first-line therapy for PMDD and severe PMS. SSRIs can be administered continuously throughout the entire month, intermittently from ovulation to the onset of menstruation, or semi-intermittently with dosage increases during the late luteal phase.

What it means for you

There are multiple ways to take SSRIs for PMDD and severe PMS. Doctors can personalize the approach to what works for each person. This is expert guidance rather than new research data.

About the study

Original title
Expert guidelines for the treatment of severe PMS, PMDD, and comorbidities: the role of SSRIs
Authors
Steiner M, Pearlstein T, Cohen LS et al.
Journal
Journal of women's health (2002)
Year
2006
Study design
Guideline
What was tested
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) with flexible dosing regimens

Topics