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Review, 2001

Does serotonin dysfunction play a role in PMDD?

Evidence suggests serotonin dysfunction is involved in PMDD. Medications that increase serotonin, particularly fluoxetine, help reduce PMDD symptoms and have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for this purpose.

Moderate study design Review of existing research (not a study of specific individuals)

What they did

Reviewed existing research studies on how serotonin relates to PMDD and how treatments that affect serotonin work.

What they found

Most evidence points to serotonin dysfunction in PMDD. Treatments that enhance serotonin are helpful in reducing symptoms. Fluoxetine, a medication that increases serotonin, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for PMDD.

What it means for you

Serotonin dysfunction appears to play a key role in PMDD, which is why serotonin-increasing medications can help. This conclusion is based on a review of existing studies rather than new research findings.

About the study

Original title
The role of central serotonergic dysfunction in the aetiology of premenstrual dysphoric disorder: therapeutic implications
Authors
Parry BL
Journal
CNS drugs
Year
2001
Study design
Review
What was tested
None - review article

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