Non-randomised trial, 2006
Does aspirin prevent premenstrual symptom worsening in women with multiple sclerosis?
In this small case series of 3 women with MS, aspirin appeared to prevent menstrual cycle-related symptom worsening. However, the study is very small and can only suggest this needs further testing.
What they did
This was a case series at Mayo Clinic. Three women with MS kept symptom diaries and had body temperature measured. They received aspirin (650 mg twice daily) and researchers tracked their fatigue and neurologic symptoms across the menstrual cycle.
What they found
Morning body temperature did not differ during symptomatic vs asymptomatic portions of the luteal phase (P = .55). Aspirin prevented symptoms but did not significantly alter luteal phase body temperature.
What it means for you
Aspirin may help prevent worsening of MS symptoms in the second half of the menstrual cycle, but this is based on only 3 women so it is very preliminary. The study suggests hormones or immune system changes (not temperature) may explain why symptoms worsen.
3
Women with MS in study
650 mg twice/day
Aspirin dose
P = .55
P-value for temperature difference
About the study
- Original title
- Premenstrual multiple sclerosis pseudoexacerbations: Role of body temperature and prevention with aspirin
- Authors
- Wingerchuk DM, Rodriguez M
- Journal
- Archives of neurology
- Year
- 2006
- Study design
- Non-randomised trial
- Participants
- 3
- What was tested
- Oral aspirin (650 mg twice daily)
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1001/archneur.63.7.1005