Treatment of PMS: Medications to relieve the discomfort + other measures

PMS is not characterized as a disease.
PMS is a syndrome. It occurs exclusively in women and is probably related to hormonal imbalances in the luteal phase.

The exact cause of premenstrual syndrome is not established, so its treatment is largely symptomatic.

Medical treatment is indicated only in severe cases when patients suffer from intense symptoms.

The aim of treatment of PMS is to suppress its symptoms.

Medications used to relieve the symptoms of PMS:

• Analgesics - They are used to treat pain. They are mostly used to treat abdominal pain and headache.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - They are used to relieve pain and also have an anti-inflammatory effect. They are useful for various pains, they also reduce breast tenderness.
• Antidepressants - These are selective serotonin (happiness hormone) reuptake inhibitors. They are given to patients who are otherwise unable to cope with mood disorders (anxiety, depression). Their use is limited in time to the premenstrual syndrome period.
• Diuretics - These are drugs for drainage. They are indicated only in women with symptoms of waterlogging. They help with swelling of the limbs, breasts or face. When taking them, it is recommended to reduce the intake of salts that bind water to themselves.
• Hormonal contraceptives - They help to balance the hormonal imbalance that occurs during PMS. Contraceptive treatment is indicated by a doctor only for severe forms of PMS.
• Vitamins and minerals - Many studies show that certain vitamins (calcium, vitamin B6, magnesium, and omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids) also relieve PMS symptoms.

Read also the article:
What effects does magnesium have on humans? When is it needed and when is it harmful?

Treatment of mild forms of PMS

For mild forms, emphasis is placed on regimen measures that include avoiding stressful situations. Rest, relaxation, sports and sleep are recommended.

Good eating habits are also of great importance. They include complete avoidance of alcohol, caffeine and other addictive substances. It is also recommended to limit smoking. Food should be eaten several times a day in smaller portions.

Treatment of moderate forms of PMS

In moderate forms of premenstrual syndrome, it is usually sufficient to supplement the regimen with pain-relieving drugs (analgesics - paralen, brufen, novalgin, nalgesin) and cramp-relieving drugs (antispasmodics - buscopan, no-spa).

Patients most often suffer from lower abdominal cramps. This treatment is sufficient.

Treatment of severe forms of PMS

In severe forms of PMS, hormonal treatment is indicated in some cases, despite the unclear etiology of PMS.

Hormonal contraceptives are used to relieve symptoms while regulating the menstrual cycle.

Many women have experienced rapid relief of symptoms.