Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, is a medical condition that causes severe depression, irritability and tension before menstruation. The symptoms are similar to those of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, but are much more intense. Although many selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, anti-anxiety medications and hormonal medications can effectively treat the symptoms of PMDD, the Food and Drug Administration has only specifically approved four medications for that purpose as of 2010.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine, sold under the brand name Sarafem, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that may relieve the symptoms of PMDD. Doctors may prescribe fluoxetine on a continuous basis or just for use during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, explains FactsForHealth.org from the Madison Institute of Medicine. Side effects of fluoxetine include dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, sleep problems, increased appetite, upset stomach, constipation, dizziness, feeling nervous and cold-like symptoms, notes Drugs.com.
Paroxetine
Paroxetine, sold under the brand name Paxil CR, is another selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor approved to treat the symptoms of PMDD. Doctors may prescribe this medication to be used continuously or intermittently during the second half of the menstrual cycle, according to FactsForHealth.org. Side effects may include dry mouth, yawning, ringing in the ears, sexual dysfunction, weight changes, mild nausea, sleep problems, dizziness, drowsiness and feeling nervous, according to Drugs.com.
Sertaline
Sertaline, sold under the brand name Zoloft, is the third selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor approved by the FDA to treat PMDD. Women may take this medication intermittently or continuously, depending on their circumstances. Side effects include sexual dysfunction, sleep problems, changes in appetite or weight, dry mouth, stomach pain, mild nausea, upset stomach, constipation, drowsiness, tiredness and dizziness, according to Drugs.com.
Drospirenone/Ethinyl Estradiol
Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol, sold under the brand name Yaz, is the only medication that is not an SSRI. This oral contraceptive is FDA-approved to treat symptoms of PMDD in women who use birth control for contraception. Yaz is taken once a day, every day, on a continuous basis. Side effects may include changes in menstrual periods, vaginal itching or discharge, problems with contact lenses, swelling of hands or feet, changes in appetite or weight, loss of scalp hair, increased hair growth, freckles or darkening of facial skin, and breast pain or tenderness, notes Drugs.com.
