Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
Prescription Medications
- Estrogen and progestin taken together
- Progestin only
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Citalopram
- Fluvoxamine
- Paroxetine
- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
- Alprazolam
- Lorazepam
Over the Counter Medicines
Prescription Medications
Hormonal contraceptives suppress ovulation, so they may provide PMS relief in many women. Combined oral contraceptive pills (which contain both estrogen and progestin) or a progestin-only contraceptive may be used.
Problems may be:
- Mood changes
- Tender breasts
- Headaches
- Spotting
Common names are:
- Citalopram
- Fluvoxamine
- Paroxetine
- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
SSRIs are used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a rare and severe form of PMS. It can help ease depression, irritability, and some physical symptoms. SSRIs may also be helpful to women who have severe PMS.
Problems may be:
References
Premenstrual syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/premenstrual-syndrome . Updated August 22, 2019. Accessed January 16, 2020.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) fact sheet. Office on Women's Health website. Available at: http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/premenstrual-syndrome.html. Updated March 16, 2018. Accessed January 16, 2020.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome-pms.html. Updated July 25, 2018. Accessed January 16, 2020.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Elliot M. Levine, MD, FACOG
- Review Date: 09/2019
- Update Date: 01/22/2021