Survey study, 2002
What treatments work for depression linked to the menstrual cycle and PMDD?
Serotonin-boosting antidepressants (SSRIs) are the first-line treatment for severe PMS and PMDD and consistently work. Progesterone does not work for mood symptoms, despite being widely prescribed.
What they did
Literature review examining current evidence on evaluating and treating depression that occurs before the period, after childbirth, or during perimenopause. Authors reviewed research on antidepressants, hormones, and other treatments based on published literature.
What they found
Serotonergic antidepressants (SSRIs) consistently show efficacy for severe PMS and PMDD and are the first-line treatment. Progesterone is not effective for mood and behavioral symptoms of PMS, PMDD, postpartum depression, or perimenopausal depression despite frequent use. Estradiol may be effective for postpartum depression and moderate-to-severe depression in perimenopause.
What it means for you
For women with severe PMS or PMDD with mood symptoms, SSRIs should be tried first as they have proven effectiveness. Progesterone, commonly prescribed for menstrual problems, does not help with mood symptoms. This summarizes existing research evidence.
About the study
- Original title
- Treatment of depression associated with the menstrual cycle: premenstrual dysphoria, postpartum depression, and the perimenopause
- Authors
- W Freeman E
- Journal
- Dialogues in clinical neuroscience
- Year
- 2002
- Study design
- Survey study
- What was tested
- SSRIs, progesterone, and estradiol for menstrual-related depression
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.31887/dcns.2002.4.2/efreeman
Topics
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