Vitex Agnus-Castus in PMS and PMDD Treatment

What type of healthcare professionals should be involved in managing women with severe PMS?

What is the role of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in treating women with severe PMS?

What type of COCs may be effective for managing PMS?

What is important to consider when using complementary medicines to treat PMS?

What approach should be used when treating women with PMS?

What is the recommended treatment approach for women with severe PMS?

What type of COC regimen is recommended for managing PMS?

What is the role of a dietician in managing women with PMS?

What is the benefit of using drospirenone-containing COCs for managing PMS?

What is the importance of considering interactions with conventional medicines when using complementary medicines to treat PMS?

Complementary Therapies for PMS

Vitex is superior to placebo, pyridoxine, and magnesium in treating PMS, with excellent safety and infrequent mild adverse effects.
Vitex appears comparable to fluoxetine for PMDD, but dosage range cannot be recommended due to variability in quality and content of preparations.
St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) shows conflicting results, with some studies showing significant improvements in physical and behavioural symptoms, but not in mood or pain-related symptoms.

Role of CBT in PMS Treatment

CBT should be considered as a treatment option for women with severe PMS, as it has been shown to provide similar benefits to fluoxetine and combination therapy.
CBT is associated with better maintenance of treatment effects compared to fluoxetine, and can help patients avoid pharmacotherapy and potential adverse effects.

Hormonal Medical Management of PMS

Drospirenone-containing COCs may represent effective treatment for PMS and should be considered as a first-line pharmaceutical intervention.
Cycle-modifying agents, such as COCs, may be effective in managing PMS, especially those containing drospirenone.
Women with severe PMS may benefit from a multidisciplinary team approach, including a general practitioner, gynaecologist, mental health professional, and dietician.

Learn about the effectiveness and safety of Vitex Agnus-Castus in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) based on clinical trials and studies.