Objective:
To test whether progesterone or progesterone receptors are important mediators of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and whether progesterone antagonist RU 486 would alleviate symptoms.
Methods:
Following extensive screening including physical and psychological assessment, seven women with severe PMS participated in a 6-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. The treatment included 3 months of low-dose RU 486 (5 mg alternate days for four doses, beginning 3 days after the urinary LH surge) or placebo, administered in a similar fashion. Symptoms were evaluated using the Calendar of Premenstrual Experiences, Beck Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Profile of Mood States.
Results:
Symptoms of PMS were similar during RU 486 and placebo treatments.
Conclusion:
Luteal-phase administration of low-dose RU 486 does not significantly reduce the physical or behavioral manifestations of PMS. (Obstet Gynecol 1994;84:1001-5)
