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Review, 2012

Do GnRH agonist drugs treat PMS?

Yes, GnRH agonist drugs can completely abolish PMS symptoms. However, they cause significant side effects from lowered estrogen that can be managed with add-back therapy.

Early or limited evidence Women with PMS, endometriosis, and fibroids

What they did

Review article updating evidence on GnRH agonists combined with add-back therapy for treating PMS and other hormone-dependent conditions.

What they found

GnRH agonists can completely abolish PMS symptoms. They are also effective for endometriosis and as adjuvant therapy for fibroids. Side effects from the low-estrogen state limited their previous use, but add-back therapy allows for wider application, longer treatment duration, and better patient compliance.

What it means for you

GnRH agonist drugs can eliminate PMS symptoms but cause significant side effects from low estrogen. Add-back therapy helps manage these side effects. This is a review of existing evidence rather than new research, and the abstract does not provide specific outcome details.

About the study

Original title
Gonadotrophin receptor hormone analogues in combination with add-back therapy: an update
Authors
McLaren JS, Morris E, Rymer J
Journal
Menopause international
Year
2012
Study design
Review
What was tested
GnRH agonist drugs combined with add-back therapy

Topics