---
title: What treatments for PMS actually work? | Niyora
description: Most PMS treatments are based on weak research. The most effective approach involves accurate diagnosis, stress control, a healthy diet and exercise, and poss
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/problems-in-the-treatment-of-premenstrual-syndrome-1990/
---

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- What treatments for PMS actually work?

Review, 1990

# What treatments for PMS actually work?

Most PMS treatments are based on weak research. The most effective approach involves accurate diagnosis, stress control, a healthy diet and exercise, and possibly the medication alprazolam. Progesterone has been shown not to work.

 Moderate study design

Review of PMS treatment research; not a primary study

## What they did

Review of PMS treatment studies, with focus on randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials

## What they found

Many PMS treatment recommendations are based on poor research with loose definitions of the disorder. The most effective current management is a conservative approach including accurate diagnosis, stress control, sensible diet and exercise, and perhaps alprazolam in the premenstrual period. Progesterone has been proven ineffective. Other approaches such as mefenamic acid and evening oil of primrose remain unproven. Further research is required on antidepressants.

## What it means for you

Much PMS research has been weak, making it hard to know what treatments really work. The safest current approach focuses on lifestyle and stress management. Better research is still needed.

## About the study

Original title Problems in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome Authors Robinson GE, Garfinkel PE Journal Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie Year 1990 Study design Review What was tested Not applicable Read the paper [doi.org/10.1177/070674379003500301](https://doi.org/10.1177/070674379003500301)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[SSRIs and antidepressants](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-ssri/)[Anxiolytics and other psychotropics](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-anxiolytics/)[Diuretics and other drugs](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-diuretics-other-drugs/)

Research tells you what helps on average. Niyora helps on the day it hits.

Calm down, see it another way, and decide what to say, with a PMS and PMDD app built by a doctor.

## Related studies

Systematic review, 2007

What treatments work for premenstrual syndrome?

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Study, 1997

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What treatments work for premenstrual disorders?

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What role do hormones play in PMS and how should we treat it?

Review, 1993

What are the medication options for treating PMS?

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