From the FDA Drug Label
Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets have not been shown to be effective for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a less serious set of symptoms occurring before menstruation. If you or your healthcare provider believe you have PMS, you should take drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets only if you want to prevent pregnancy; and not for the treatment of PMS
The most effective treatment for pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is not specified in the drug label. However, it is mentioned that drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets are not effective for the treatment of PMS.
- The drug label does provide information on the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is a more severe condition related to the menstrual cycle.
- Key points to consider:
- Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol tablets are not indicated for the treatment of PMS.
- These tablets may be used for the treatment of PMDD, but only if the patient has already decided to use the Pill for birth control and has been diagnosed with PMDD by a healthcare provider 1.
From the Research
The most effective treatment for pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are probably more effective when taken continuously compared to luteal phase administration, as evidenced by a recent systematic review 2.
Treatment Options
- For mild to moderate symptoms, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, and dietary changes can be effective.
- Calcium supplements and vitamin B6 may also help reduce symptoms.
- For medication, NSAIDs like ibuprofen can address pain and cramping.
- For more severe symptoms, SSRIs like fluoxetine or sertraline are considered most effective for mood-related symptoms.
SSRI Treatment
- SSRIs probably reduce overall self-rated premenstrual symptoms in women with PMS and PMDD, with a standardized mean difference of -0.57 2.
- Continuous SSRI administration is probably more effective than luteal phase administration, with a P-value of 0.03 for subgroup difference 2.
- The most common adverse effects associated with SSRIs are nausea, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, and fatigue 2.
Other Treatment Options
- Hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing drospirenone, can help regulate hormonal fluctuations and reduce symptoms.
- Diuretics like spironolactone may reduce bloating.
- Other treatment options, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs and bilateral oophorectomy, have positive evidence but are not suitable for conventional treatment due to limitations and intensive care requirements 3.