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Women given antidepressants to cope with premenstrual mood problems may only need to take the pills two weeks a month, a study suggests.
This intermittent dosing regimen has been shown to be as effective as continuous tablet-taking in controlling symptoms and may help patients avoid dependence and withdrawal associated with the drugs, researchers at Maudsley Hospital in south London added.
The team came to their conclusions after conducting an analysis of eight studies involving 460 women with severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, both of which cause psychological problems and are linked to fluctuating hormone levels.
All were prescribed common antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to relieve symptoms.
Women given antidepressants to cope with premenstrual mood problems may only need to take the pills two weeks a month, a study suggests. (file photo)
Some took the treatment every day, while others followed a so-called luteal phase dosing schedule. This involves starting the pills on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle - the luteal phase, when ovulation occurs - and taking them for two weeks, stopping on the first day of the next period.
The analysis found no significant difference in response rates and symptoms between the two groups, leading them to conclude that the intermittent dosing approach was equally effective.
It is estimated that about 30 percent of women suffer from moderate to severe PMS, which is characterized by distressing physical, behavioral and psychological changes.
Symptoms include mood swings, depression, fatigue, irritability and aggression. Bloating, breast tenderness, clumsiness, headaches, and weight gain are also common.
This intermittent dosing regimen has been shown to be as effective as continuous tablet-taking in controlling symptoms and may help patients avoid dependence and withdrawal associated with the drugs, researchers at Maudsley Hospital in south London added. (file photo)
Premenstrual dysphoria affects between five and eight percent of patients. While reducing stress, eating healthy, and limiting alcohol consumption can reduce symptoms, those with the worst problems are often prescribed hormone treatments or SSRI antidepressants to help.
The researchers concluded that the intermittent dosing schedule is an important option: "Because SSRIs are not taken continuously, there is limited risk of withdrawal symptoms."
GP Dr. Philippa Kaye, a women's health expert, said: "I welcome any research into the impact of the menstrual cycle on mental health - it means researchers are finally taking this seriously."