Menstrual Cramps and PMS Medication Guide (cont.)
What medications are used to treat PMS
Medications used to treat the different symptoms of PMS
include:
- Diuretics are medications that increase urine
production, thereby eliminating excess fluid and relieving
weight gain, bloating, swelling, and a full feeling.
Ammonium chloride, caffeine, and pamabrom are mild
diuretics that are ingredients in nonprescription OTC
products such as Diurex PMS, Lurline PMS, Midol PMS,
Pamprin Multisymptom, and Premesyn PMS. Spironolactone
(Aldactone) is a prescription diuretic that has been used
to treat premenstrual swelling of the hands, feet, or face.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
are commonly used for menstrual cramps,
headaches, and
pelvic discomfort. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen
(Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox), ketoprofen
(Orudis), and mefenamic acid (Ponstel).
- Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are sometimes prescribed by doctors to decrease fluctuations in ovarian hormone levels. While older studies failed to provide evidence that OCPs can consistently provide relief for symptoms of PMS, the newer
birth control pills, with their improved hormonal formulations, seem to be more beneficial.
- Ovarian suppressors such as danazol (Danocrine) have
been prescribed by doctors to suppress ovarian hormone
production. Danocrine cannot be used over long periods
because of side effects.
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs, which
cause the complete suppression of ovarian function, have
recently been found to help some women with PMS. These GnRH
analogs are not prescribed long term (more than 6 months)
because of their adverse effects on bone density and an
increased risk of bone thinning (osteoporosis).
- Antidepressants are prescribed by doctors to treat the
mood disturbances related to PMS. Antidepressants appear to
work by increasing brain chemical (serotonin and others)
levels that are affected by the ovarian hormones.
Fluoxetine (Prozac) and paroxetine (Paxil) are examples of
antidepressant medications that have been found to be
effective in treating the mood changes associated with PMS.
For more, please read the Premenstrual Syndrome article.
Next: What are
some guidelines for the safe use of OTC
products for menstrual cramps and PMS? »
- ibuprofen, Advil, Children's Advil/Motrin, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin, PediaCare Fever, etc. - Explains the medication ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Medipren) a drug used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
- IUD (Intrauterine Device) - Learn about the IUD (intrauterine device), a birth control method to prevent pregnancy. Side effects of an IUD include cramps, infection, spotting, heavy periods, infertility, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Anxiety - Read about anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, GAD) causes, physical symptoms and signs, medications and treatment. Learn about symptoms (worry, fear) and other types of anxiety disorders.
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