Systematic review, 2009
Are SSRIs effective for treating severe PMS or PMDD?
Yes. SSRIs significantly reduced PMS symptoms in 2,294 women. All six different SSRIs tested showed benefit for reducing physical, functional, and behavioral symptoms.
What they did
Systematic review of 40 randomized controlled trials comparing six SSRIs (fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, citalopram, clomipramine) versus placebo. Included women with prospective diagnosis of severe PMS, PMDD, or late luteal phase dysphoric disorder. Searched databases through March 2008. Analyzed data separately for change scores and absolute symptom scores.
What they found
In 2,294 women, SSRIs were highly effective (SMD -0.53, 95% CI -0.68 to -0.39, P<0.00001). Effective for physical symptoms (SMD -0.34), functional symptoms (SMD -0.30), and behavioral symptoms (SMD -0.41). Both luteal phase only and continuous daily administration were effective. All six SSRIs tested were effective.
What it means for you
SSRIs work for PMS symptoms. Whether taken only before your period or every day makes little difference. All the different SSRIs tested showed benefit. Some women stopped treatment due to side effects.
2,294
women in primary analysis
40
randomized trials
6
different SSRIs tested
About the study
- Original title
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for premenstrual syndrome
- Authors
- Brown J, O' Brien PM, Marjoribanks J et al.
- Journal
- The Cochrane database of systematic reviews
- Year
- 2009
- Study design
- Systematic review
- What was tested
- SSRIs: fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, citalopram, clomipramine versus placebo
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd001396.pub2
Topics
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