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Medications for PMDD

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a condition that causes extreme depression and irritability in the days before menstruation. It is much more severe than typical premenstrual syndrome (PMS) according to Medline Plus, and may require antidepressant medication to alleviate or control the symptoms.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of PMDD include fatigue, feelings of sadness or hopelessness, anxiety, food cravings or binge eating, mood swings, panic attacks, disinterest in daily activities, bloating, headaches, sleep disturbances and muscle pain.

    Common Medications

    • Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressant medications used to treat PMDD. These include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft) , paroxetine (Paxil) and citalopram (Celexa).

    Dosing

    • The antidepressant may be taken daily, intermittently during the second half of the cycle or continuously with the dose increasing in the second half of the cycle according to MGH Center for Women's Health.

    Side Effects

    • Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, diarrhea, headache, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, drowsiness, weight gain, headache and rash. In rare cases, SSRIs can increase the risk of suicide.

    Other Medications

    • When anxiety is present, anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax or Valium may be prescribed. Pain relievers and diuretics may help alleviate the physical symptoms of PMDD.

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