Randomised trial, 1999
Does a low-dose GnRH agonist relieve premenstrual symptoms while keeping regular periods?
Low-dose GnRH agonist significantly relieved irritability and depression, and improved physical symptoms like swelling and headache. However, it stopped ovulation in 56% of women, making it unsuitable for long-term use if you want regular cycles.
What they did
Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. 27 women with severe PMS took either buserelin (a GnRH agonist) intranasally at 100 micrograms once daily for two months, then placebo for two months, or vice versa. Women rated their mood and physical symptoms daily.
What they found
Premenstrual irritability and depression were significantly relieved. Positive mood like friendliness and cheerfulness improved. Swelling and headache improved. Breast tenderness was unaffected. In 56% of patients, the treatment stopped ovulation, particularly in older women.
What it means for you
This medication works for mood and some physical symptoms, but stops ovulation in over half of women, especially older ones. The study was small and doesn't tell us about long-term effects.
27
women with severe PMS
56%
developed anovulation
100 micrograms
daily dose
About the study
- Original title
- Treatment of premenstrual syndrome with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist in a low dose regimen
- Authors
- Sundström I, Nyberg S, Bixo M et al.
- Journal
- Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica
- Year
- 1999
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 27
- What was tested
- Buserelin (GnRH agonist) 100 micrograms intranasally once daily for 2 months
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1080/j.1600-0412.1999.781011.x
Topics
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