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Medical Treatment for Menstrual Depression

Many women experience mild to moderate mood swings associated with their menstrual cycles. However, according to the Committee on Gynecologic Practice of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2 to 10 percent of women develop depression and other more intense side effects in a condition known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Depression linked to menstrual cycles can be treated with medication.

  1. Fluoxetine

    • Fluoxetine is a drug marketed under the name of Prozac. This drug is a type of antidepressant known as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Besides being used to treat PMDD, fluoxetine is also used to treat depression, bulemia and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

    Sertraline

    • Sertraline, also known as Zoloft, is another serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly used to treat menstrual depression. Although it alleviates depressive feelings in some individuals, it can intensify them in others, heightening the risk of suicide. This is true of antidepressants in general.

    Paroxetine

    • Paroxetine, otherwise known as Paxil, is another member of the serotonin reuptake inhibitor group. Besides treating menstrual depression, it is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

    Hormonal Therapy

    • Estradiol and danazol are two types of hormones used to treat PMDD. The side effects of these medications may mimic those of menopause.

    Pain Relievers

    • Pain relievers are not used to treat menstrual depression directly but can have a positive affect on the condition. Many sufferers of PMDD also have pain symptoms accompanying their depression. The use of acetaminophen and ibuprofen can lessen these symptoms and thereby possibly lessen the feeling of depression.

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