Randomised trial, 1997
What is the difference between PMS and PMDD, and how should they be treated?
PMDD is a severe condition distinct from PMS that can be diagnosed using standardized criteria and daily symptom tracking for at least two menstrual cycles. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, SSRIs, or surgeries that stop ovulation, all proven effective in randomized trials.
What they did
This is a review article that summarizes research on PMS, PMDD, and treatment options based on existing published studies.
What they found
Randomized, placebo-controlled trials show that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and medical or surgical removal of the ovaries are effective for PMDD. Treatment works by either eliminating the hormonal trigger from ovulation or by changing how the serotonin system responds.
What it means for you
PMDD is a real, diagnosable medical condition separate from ordinary PMS with proven treatments available. The main limitation is that this summarizes other studies rather than presenting new original research.
2
menstrual cycles required for diagnosis
About the study
- Original title
- Premenstrual syndromes
- Authors
- Steiner M
- Journal
- Annual review of medicine
- Year
- 1997
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- What was tested
- SSRIs, lifestyle and stress management, hormonal medications, or surgical removal of the ovaries.
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1146/annurev.med.48.1.447
Topics
Related studies
Review, 2018
What are the most effective treatments for premenstrual syndrome and PMDD?
Review, 2004
What is PMDD and how is it treated?
Review, 2004
How should doctors diagnose and treat PMS and PMDD?
Review, 2002
What treatments work best for PMS and PMDD?
Review, 2012
Is depression linked to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause?
Randomised trial, 2006
Do different types of PMS symptoms respond better to different medicines?