Premenstrual Syndrome
Alternate Names : PMS
What are the treatments for the condition?
ACOG recommends the following lifestyle changes to relieve PMS symptoms:
a diet high in complex carbohydrates, or starches, and lower in simple sugars
nutritional supplements, such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamins E, B complex, and B6
regular aerobic exercise
stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and imagery
Medications used to treat PMS include the following:
antidepressant medicines, such as fluoxetine, that increase serotonin production
benzodiazepine medicines, such as alprazolam, that lower anxiety
danazol, a modified male hormone, which can decrease breast pain
diuretics, such as spironolactone and metolazone, which help the body excrete excess water and salts
hormones, such as nafarelin and leuprolide, which block the release of eggs from the ovaries
medicines that affect high prostaglandin levels, such as mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, and naproxen
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone, also known as GnRH, agonists can be prescribed to prevent the release of the egg from the ovary. These medicines are used only in severe PMS that can't be treated effectively with other medicines. Other medicines, such as lithium and oral contraceptives, have been used to treat PMS. However, they have not been proven effective in clinical trials.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Medicines to lower prostaglandin levels can cause stomach upset and allergic reactions. Hormones can interfere with other body processes. Antidepressants and medicines to control anxiety can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and allergic reactions. Diuretics can cause salt imbalances and dehydration. GnRH agonists can cause osteoporosis.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
For many women, treatment continues until they stop menstruating at menopause.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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