Randomised trial, 1999
Do SSRIs reduce premenstrual dysphoria symptoms?
Yes. SSRIs work significantly better than placebo and faster than when used for depression or anxiety. Intermittent dosing (taking medication only before the period) may work even better than daily dosing.
What they did
This is a review summarizing findings from multiple recent controlled trials of serotonin reuptake inhibitors for premenstrual dysphoria.
What they found
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (clomipramine, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline) reduced symptoms significantly better than placebo. Non-serotonergic antidepressants (maprotiline, bupropion) were ineffective. SSRIs work faster for PMDD than for depression, panic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Intermittent citalopram reduced symptoms more effectively than continuous daily dosing.
What it means for you
SSRIs are now available and effective for PMDD, which previously had no effective treatment apart from those disrupting ovarian function. This review summarizes the overall evidence. The findings suggest serotonin dampens irritability and anger, supporting a biological understanding of PMDD.
5%
Percentage of fertile-age women with premenstrual dysphoria
About the study
- Original title
- Serotonin reuptake inhibitors for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoria
- Authors
- Eriksson E
- Journal
- International clinical psychopharmacology
- Year
- 1999
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- What was tested
- SSRIs (clomipramine, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline) versus placebo and non-serotonergic antidepressants
- Read the paper
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10471170/
Topics
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