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Managing PMS: Medications


 

With your healthcare provider's help, you may find a medication that works for you. Make sure you know how to use your medications. Take medications only as directed. And always read warning labels. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

NSAIDs

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) relieve pain. Some can be bought over the counter. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Stronger NSAIDs may be prescribed for more severe symptoms.

  • Benefits. NSAIDs relieve headaches, muscle aches, and other physical symptoms. They work best when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
  • Side effects. NSAIDs can cause stomach upset. Taking them with food may help.
  • Other concerns. You shouldn't take more than one type of NSAID at a time. Also, NSAIDs may not be safe if you have asthma, heart disease, or kidney problems.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills may be prescribed to control hormone levels. When prescribed for PMS, pills may be taken every day for up to 9 weeks.

  • Benefits. Birth control pills ease a range of symptoms including breast tenderness and appetite changes.
  • Side effects. Birth control pills can cause stomach upset and headache.
  • Other concerns. Rarely, birth control pills can cause blood clots. The risk is higher for cigarette smokers over age 35.

Diuretics

Diuretics may be prescribed to rid your body of excess water and salt.

  • Benefits. Diuretics reduce bloating and swelling of the hands and feet.
  • Side effects. Taking diuretics can lead to an imbalance of potassium (a mineral) in your body. This may require taking supplements or making changes to your diet.
  • Other concerns. Diuretics may not be safe for you if you take NSAIDs or certain antidepressants.

SSRIs

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) may be prescribed to help keep serotonin levels stable. SSRIs may be taken every day. Or, they may be taken only during the 2 weeks before your period.

  • Benefits. SSRIs help relieve emotional symptoms including irritability, depression, and mood changes. They also ease physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and appetite changes.
  • Side effects. SSRIs can cause stomach upset, sleep problems, anxiety, and headache. SSRIs may also reduce interest in sex. This is less likely when SSRIs are taken only for part of the menstrual cycle.
  • Other concerns. SSRIs shouldn't be used if you take certain antidepressants.
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