![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 116 to 140 of 226. Go back in thread:
Posted by Dr. Bob on March 24, 2001, at 16:23:34
In reply to Re: sarafem? , posted by Wendy on March 24, 2001, at 15:42:11
> You are, sadly, misinformed.
This was unnecessary...
> It's unfortunate that people without first-hand knowledge of this disorder are so quick to slam it with negatives.
>
> If you've lived with this disorder or with someone suffering with this disorder, you would have an entirely different perspective.And please don't jump to conclusions about the experiences of others, thanks.
Bob
PS: Follow-ups, if any, regarding this should be redirected to Psycho-Babble Administration.
Posted by Lori RN, psychiatry on March 27, 2001, at 8:09:40
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Terry on March 11, 1999, at 15:51:23
The best advice I've read so far on this disorder comes from the Sarafem website and includes keeping a journal of daily moods/emotions/and behavioural responses for a 3 month period (number of days in the month is based on the length of your cycle). You can then discuss mental status changes with your doctor or psychiatrist to confirm or negate the diagnosis of PMS or PMDD. It is interesting to note that only a small percentage of women suffer from PMDD, and that many have an underlying depressive disorder that is signifigantly impacted during the pre-menstrual period. Or, others may have undergone many recent life changes as in one of the letters I have read above, which will most certainly have an effect on mood and coping. The thing is, treatment is very much individual and may require many modalities (maybe just medication, or combinations of medication, counselling, and lifestyle changes). It is important, as with any illness, not to diagnose yourself, but to seek medical advice. I realize that this may be difficult as the disorder is somewhat stigmatized and not widely accepted as a real medical condition. Persevere. Recent FDA approval of Fluoxetine in treatment is encouraging and Lilly is working hard to market their brand (Serafem) and in doing so, PMDD is becoming well known. Psychiatrists have been treating PMS with SSRIs for years and it has been recognized as a dysphoric/dysthymic disorder in the psychiatric community for quite a long time. If your family doctor does not recognize PMDD, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist and go armed with your 3 month journal. Be sure to include a thorough history of your pre-morbid personality, any lifestyle changes or recent stressors, a synopis of your normal coping ability, and describe your behaviour on a normal continuum and during mood swings. Suggestions I have picked up in the area of lifestyle changes include:
Additions of Calcium supplements
Vitamin B6 - 10 mg daily
Exercise 3-5 times per week
Balanced diet with increases in whole grains and fruit and vegetables, decreased in salt, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine
adequate rest
Relaxation exercises, music, visual imagery, whatever works for you.I am not just a spokesperson for the PMDD club for women, I am also a member. I take 10mg of Prozac daily, and I'm working on the above lifestyle changes. Of signifigance, the reduction in caffeine alone has made a huge difference in my concentration and response to stress, particularly at work. Avoiding alcohol also makes a difference, as alcohol in itself is a depressant and is also contraindicated with the use of SSRIs. Jan, if your medication is not working, you need to visit your doctor again and be assessed. Obviously, you need more effective treatment.
Lastly, remember it is your responsibility to be actively involved in your treatment. If changes need to be made, you are the only one who can make them, medication alone is not always effective. You also need to be open and honest with your health care professional, help them to help you.
Hope this was helpful.
Lori
Posted by Paulette on March 27, 2001, at 19:35:31
In reply to Sexual side effects?, posted by JP on March 24, 2001, at 7:55:36
> Has anyone who is taking Sarefem had any decrease in
> their ability to have orgasms? I was taking Prozac a few
> years ago to treat severe PMS but was so frustrated
> at my inability to climax. I stopped taking it because
> my husband and I decided to start a family, but now
> that I am menstruating again, this severe PMS (now called PMDD)
> is horrendous. I don't want my child to grow up with
> a mother who is a monster for two weeks out of every month.
> I am interested to know of all side effects you have experienced,
> including sexual side effects. Thank you.Yes, problems with that with me....almost ashamed of it...matter of fact brought me to tears tonight for the first time in 4 months...tears that is....havent had a crying spell since starting Sarafem 4 months ago, and very few orgasims....
Posted by Paulette on March 27, 2001, at 19:40:00
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by Mo on March 24, 2001, at 11:45:43
> Hi,
>
> I'm new and would appreciate help from the experts (you!).
>
> Over the last couple of years I've slowly developed symptoms related to my cycles. They include physical ones and social ones. I'm generally a happy person, have a great husband, family, life, etc. and have no reason to complain. My doc, however, has always been the type that doesn't really listen; he just dictates to you what his prescribed program is w/no alternatives. I'm in my mid-40s now and don't need him anymore for his well-known OB skills.
>
> I finally went to him w/complaints after hearing from my friends about the relief they received w/hormones-all women w/in about 5 years of menopause. I had what people told me were textbook symptoms of wacko hormone levels: acne, vaginal dryness, decreased drive, crankiness, etc. Yes, the symptoms were cyclical. I had complained before about things-the dryness for example. Even tho the lab said I had no infection he treated me for one anyway, not offering any other possible explanation, even after I proposed hormone imbalances due to my age.
> >
> > I've had more pronounced symptions the past few months so I saw the doc this week. He asked me what my symptoms were-I told him the above, plus some memory issues and mood swings. Some of the physical ailments he did NOT write down, but he did write all the "social" ones. He then wrote a scrip for Sarafem, said I had pmdd, and ordered a blood test for hormones. I asked if he'd change the scrip if the hormone levels came back funny. He said my hormone levels would NOT be off. There was no thyroid test, no questions about any other health issues (previous bouts w/endometriosis), but he did ask if I had "things" going on in my life "of concern to me". I said no-life was great! (This visit lasted about 4 minutes total!)
> >
> > It was then that I did more research on sarafem and pmdd. It appears to be classified as a psychiatric condition, which I don't think I have;I have many physical symptoms not being addressed. I'm also concerned about the doc's approach....needless to say I think I'll be switching. I think I'm in pre-menopause and need hormones; he quickly says pmdd and your mood will be better. Ok, so what about the other issues?
> >
> > What do you think? I would appreciate ANY comments whatsoever. I'm not filling the scrip until I'm comfortable that I'm on a path I truly should be on. Thank you for any input you may have!
> > MoYes Mo, PMDD is more than just psycosocial problems...I have found that the physical problems related to my PMDD cause the emotional ones to be more severe. If the doctor is not listening...then you should find another...I made mine listen by tracking every single day how I was feeling physically and emotionally..then compared the 2 months side by side to days of my cycle and low and behold am able to calculate the good from the bad and when the good start and when they end. He finally listened to that...you have to be persistant, and find one who cares...
Good luck!
Posted by Paulette on March 27, 2001, at 19:49:29
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Lori RN, psychiatry on March 27, 2001, at 8:09:40
> The best advice I've read so far on this disorder comes from the Sarafem website and includes keeping a journal of daily moods/emotions/and behavioural responses for a 3 month period (number of days in the month is based on the length of your cycle). You can then discuss mental status changes with your doctor or psychiatrist to confirm or negate the diagnosis of PMS or PMDD. It is interesting to note that only a small percentage of women suffer from PMDD, and that many have an underlying depressive disorder that is signifigantly impacted during the pre-menstrual period. Or, others may have undergone many recent life changes as in one of the letters I have read above, which will most certainly have an effect on mood and coping. The thing is, treatment is very much individual and may require many modalities (maybe just medication, or combinations of medication, counselling, and lifestyle changes). It is important, as with any illness, not to diagnose yourself, but to seek medical advice. I realize that this may be difficult as the disorder is somewhat stigmatized and not widely accepted as a real medical condition. Persevere. Recent FDA approval of Fluoxetine in treatment is encouraging and Lilly is working hard to market their brand (Serafem) and in doing so, PMDD is becoming well known. Psychiatrists have been treating PMS with SSRIs for years and it has been recognized as a dysphoric/dysthymic disorder in the psychiatric community for quite a long time. If your family doctor does not recognize PMDD, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist and go armed with your 3 month journal. Be sure to include a thorough history of your pre-morbid personality, any lifestyle changes or recent stressors, a synopis of your normal coping ability, and describe your behaviour on a normal continuum and during mood swings. Suggestions I have picked up in the area of lifestyle changes include:
>
> Additions of Calcium supplements
> Vitamin B6 - 10 mg daily
> Exercise 3-5 times per week
> Balanced diet with increases in whole grains and fruit and vegetables, decreased in salt, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine
> adequate rest
> Relaxation exercises, music, visual imagery, whatever works for you.
>
> I am not just a spokesperson for the PMDD club for women, I am also a member. I take 10mg of Prozac daily, and I'm working on the above lifestyle changes. Of signifigance, the reduction in caffeine alone has made a huge difference in my concentration and response to stress, particularly at work. Avoiding alcohol also makes a difference, as alcohol in itself is a depressant and is also contraindicated with the use of SSRIs. Jan, if your medication is not working, you need to visit your doctor again and be assessed. Obviously, you need more effective treatment.
>
> Lastly, remember it is your responsibility to be actively involved in your treatment. If changes need to be made, you are the only one who can make them, medication alone is not always effective. You also need to be open and honest with your health care professional, help them to help you.
>
> Hope this was helpful.
>
> LoriYou are very right Lori...all the diagnosis in the world will not help you unless you are willing to put as much effort into getting better as you expect your doctors to do for you....I did the journalling for 2 months, put them side by side and rated day by day of cycle and am able to pin point my really bad times and I am learning to find something to aim back at it to help disarm those times. Dont get me wrong...I still have had 2 days each month where some poor person was the brunt of my undeserved rath...but I have been able to avoid more than those days by actually seeing that those days are coming and making a very very concious effort to be 'good' during those times...it may mean I am extra quiet for a couple of days...but it saves my sons heart being broken if I yell at him....
I really do recommend the journalling through this if not to help the doctor..surely to help yourself realize what you are going through...I wish I could share mine with you but 2 months is a lot of stuff...I am sure that a lot of you would be surprised that you really are not the only ones going through it...
Posted by ARR on March 28, 2001, at 15:21:26
In reply to Re: Sexual side effects? » JP, posted by Paulette on March 27, 2001, at 19:35:31
Sexual dysfunction is a well known effect of the SSRI's. There are numerous studies that document this. The estimates range between 35 and 60%. This is a little disconcerting given that the Sarafem Web site touts the medication as allowing you to be the woman that you are all month. Hmmm... I'm not sure that being anorgasmic falls into the category of being the woman that you are.
A woman that I know, who was taking Celexa, another SSRI, made major dietary changes and then went off of Celexa. Her ability to have orgasms returned and the dietary changes were enough enough to eliminate the "PMDD" symptoms.
The book Prozac Backlash documents the studies of sexual dysfunction and other side effects associated with Sarafem/Prozac. It is written by a psychiatrist, Dr. Glenmullen, and is a must read for anyone considering this medication. He stresses that the side effects are of much greater concern with long term usage. Since most women have their menstrual cycles for decades, and no one has suggested that Sarafem cures the condition, we are indeed talking about long term usage. Most of the studies done on this SSRIs were short term studies. The long term studies are very very limited. Do we really want millions of women to be guinea pigs?
ARR
> > Has anyone who is taking Sarefem had any decrease in
> > their ability to have orgasms? I was taking Prozac a few
> > years ago to treat severe PMS but was so frustrated
> > at my inability to climax. I stopped taking it because
> > my husband and I decided to start a family, but now
> > that I am menstruating again, this severe PMS (now called PMDD)
> > is horrendous. I don't want my child to grow up with
> > a mother who is a monster for two weeks out of every month.
> > I am interested to know of all side effects you have experienced,
> > including sexual side effects. Thank you.
>
> Yes, problems with that with me....almost ashamed of it...matter of fact brought me to tears tonight for the first time in 4 months...tears that is....havent had a crying spell since starting Sarafem 4 months ago, and very few orgasims....
Posted by Emily B. on March 29, 2001, at 23:07:23
In reply to Re: I'm scared, posted by Wendy on March 11, 2001, at 6:57:02
O.K. I'm right in the middle of PMDD. I'm ready and willing to got to my doctor. The only problem is that I feel "fine" and "better" the rest of the month. I convince myself that I don't need help. I have an appt. April 10. Is there a way to know if a doctor supports Sarafem. I would like to know before I approach her with it.
Thanks to everyone who responded. It makes me feel better to know I'm not alone.
Emily
Posted by Wendy on March 30, 2001, at 15:43:40
In reply to Re: I'm scared, posted by Emily B. on March 29, 2001, at 23:07:23
> >The only problem is that I feel "fine" and "better" the rest of the month. I convince myself that I don't need help.< <
Well, you have to decide for yourself if the 'good' days are acceptable enough to allow for the 'bad' days. I think you already know the answer to that one.
> >Is there a way to know if a doctor supports Sarafem. I would like to know before I approach her with it.< <
This one's a shot in the dark if you don't know your doctor well enough to presume such. Here's what I did when I finally worked up the courage to ask my doctor for help. I went online to the 'Sarafem.com' site and printed off EVERY page; both the patient information and the physician's information. Then I went over the information with a fine tooth comb and was brutally honest with myself in answering/commenting on the information/questions.
I dropped off the information at my doctor's office and asked (pleaded, really) the nurses to please have him read the papers before my appointment. He did, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that he in full support of PMDD being a legitimate disorder (he's an older family physician, so I wasn't sure how he would respond to this), and after asking a LOT of questions, he offered me 2 options. Medication with monthly follow-up and/or psychiatric intervention. I chose the meds because it was the best option for me; I had already investigated the disorder (and others) for many months, and I was certain that 'talking about' what was happening wasn't going to give me any further insight.
The meds have helped TREMENDOUSLY!
> >It makes me feel better to know I'm not alone.< <
Use this courage to go forward with your quest for answers and help from your own doctor.
Posted by Herbmom on April 23, 2001, at 12:17:59
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Lori RN, psychiatry on March 27, 2001, at 8:09:40
Good afternoon, fellow sufferers.
I have recently been diagnosed with PMDD after a long battle with mood swings and migraines that began in 1976. I am hoping against hope that this new round of medication will finally work. My doctor prescribed Sarafem and a calcium channel blocker. I had some unusual symptoms after the first dose and the doctor instructed me to stop the beta-blocker, but continue the Sarafem. I had extreme dizziness, involuntary "jerking" of arms & legs and a terrible, but unusual headache that did not respond to Imitrex or Zomig. I had to go to the ER for relief. I am now taking only the Sarafem and have had no recurrence of these symptoms.Has anyone else been prescribed this combination? If so, is this reaction common? The mood swings are bad, but the migraines are worse, so I'm looking for relief from both. Will Sarafem help with migraines that are definitely menstrual-related? Hormone treatments (BCPs, estrogen, etc.) only make the symptoms worse by making them persist all month long.
Also, I read some of the conversations about sexual side effects and am concerned. I've never had a problem with orgasms and I certainly don't want to now.
Thanks for any advice
Posted by SalArmy4me on April 23, 2001, at 20:30:40
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Herbmom on April 23, 2001, at 12:17:59
Have you ever tried Maxalt for migraines? That's the only thing my father prescribes for migraines anymore.
Posted by Herbmom on April 24, 2001, at 9:17:30
In reply to Re: Migraines » Herbmom, posted by SalArmy4me on April 23, 2001, at 20:30:40
> Have you ever tried Maxalt for migraines?
Maxalt did not work for me. Imitrex works only 50% of the time. Zomig works best, but I'm getting migraines 6-10 times per month (more than my insurance will allow pills for). My doctor and I are trying to reduce their frequency and severity. At least 1-2 times per month, not even the Zomig works and I end up in the ER for a shot.
Posted by SalArmy4me on April 24, 2001, at 16:14:25
In reply to Re: Migraines, posted by Herbmom on April 24, 2001, at 9:17:30
I think you might have much success with the new formulation of divalproex sodium (Depakote ER) for Migraine prophylaxis. I tried it and had no side-effects.
> > Have you ever tried Maxalt for migraines?
>
> Maxalt did not work for me. Imitrex works only 50% of the time. Zomig works best, but I'm getting migraines 6-10 times per month (more than my insurance will allow pills for). My doctor and I are trying to reduce their frequency and severity. At least 1-2 times per month, not even the Zomig works and I end up in the ER for a shot.
Posted by kimMom2/3 on May 5, 2001, at 12:03:41
In reply to Re: Migraines, posted by Herbmom on April 24, 2001, at 9:17:30
> > Have you ever tried Maxalt for migraines?
>Using WELLBUTRIN and FIORINOL and also with the use of Norco, has STOPPED my migraines (which the pain was leading me into depression).
I had ONE episode of a NASTY headache/boderline migraine two days ago. NOW that was in in the three months since being on my meds =)
Kim
Posted by rube on May 21, 2001, at 9:57:51
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by Mo on March 24, 2001, at 11:45:43
and to think I thought it was just me. I have been on sarafem for 4 months now. thought it was the answer to my prayers. No pms, bitchiness, bloating; I could even stand myself.
But I worried. I'm having hot flashes before and during my periods. I have NO sex drive and cannot have an orgasism. I know its the sarafem. I think I'm also starting pre menopause.
Its so frustrating. If I don't take the sarafem I'm a complete bitch to my husband and children, but
if I continue to take it, I feel like I losing an important part of my relationship with my husband. (and I miss it!!) I've tried dieting, excerising more, getting more rest....
I glad to hear that I'm not the only one and I feel for all of us. What do we do??
>
>
Posted by bobs gurl on June 14, 2001, at 17:42:18
In reply to Re: Migraines » Herbmom, posted by SalArmy4me on April 24, 2001, at 16:14:25
> I take migra-lieve for my migraines and it has been the only thing I have found thaty actually works.I used every drug out there till i found this and the fact that it is almost entirely natural is the best part. If you want to check it out go to www.naturalhealthmed.com and check it out. It probably doesn't work for everybody but both me and my daughter have found relief.
I think you might have much success with the new formulation of divalproex sodium (Depakote ER) for Migraine prophylaxis. I tried it and had no side-effects.
>
> > > Have you ever tried Maxalt for migraines?
> >
> > Maxalt did not work for me. Imitrex works only 50% of the time. Zomig works best, but I'm getting migraines 6-10 times per month (more than my insurance will allow pills for). My doctor and I are trying to reduce their frequency and severity. At least 1-2 times per month, not even the Zomig works and I end up in the ER for a shot.
Posted by Chris on June 20, 2001, at 8:18:58
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by rube on May 21, 2001, at 9:57:51
My husband moved out 3 days before Christmas, 7 days before my priod. My new boyfriend is great but, I find myself thinking the same evil thoughts and having the same rageful feelings. I even began hitting him; this is a new behavior for me at forty years old. Family and friends try to be supportive but when they say things like 'it's nothing' and 'don't worry about' it makes it hard to ask for help. you'd have to be nuerotic to ask for help for 'nothing', a hypochondraic at the very least! I have a call in to my Dr. Having a long term relationship is a very, very high priority for me now. I can't see that happening if I don't get some help, fast! I am open to various treatment options and will no longer resist the idea of going onto an SSRI. I understand that Wellbutrin is an alternative to Sarafem to avoid the sexual side effects. Worth looking into. Good luck to all and send me some good thoughts, too, I have suffered long enogh.
Posted by Lorraine on June 22, 2001, at 9:38:47
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by Chris on June 20, 2001, at 8:18:58
Make sure the med you are put on is good for rage. Not everyone with a mood disorder suffers from rage so be specific and explicit with your doctor. A psychopharmacoligist will have a better handle on what he/she is doing than a regular doctor. Good luck. Let us know what happens.
Posted by Zo on June 24, 2001, at 16:02:50
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by Chris on June 20, 2001, at 8:18:58
Sarafem. . .is Prozac, marketed under another name!
Same thing with Zyban, for quitting smoking. It's Wellbutrin!
Posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 11:20:40
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long, posted by Linda already exists on October 8, 2000, at 11:46:10
I am 34 y/o and was diagnosed with PMDD yesterday. I have severe PMS symtoms and without really investigating, my doctor prescribed Sarafem. I have suffered with anemia for many many years and have taken supplements and tried to follow diets for this. Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with Endometriosis. After months of testing the my doctor at the time, just up and says "Oh you have endometriosos, Its nothing to worry about. You've had your tubes tied and weren't having any more kids anyway." I wish that I would have researched this more. These violent mood swings that accure after ovulation have just about destroyed my life. No one can stand to be around me for 2 1/2 weeks of the month. It is disrupting my job, my social life and my love life. My children think I am the One Who Flew Over the CooCoos Nest. I am very interested to know how your Sarafem is working for you. I am scarred of this drug and also have my doubts that this will help me. I may not be suffering from PMDD. I need to be sure and follow the right track before I loose my mind. Thank you for your time. Sunnie
Posted by akrake on August 15, 2001, at 12:53:57
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » Linda already exists, posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 11:20:40
> I am 34 y/o and was diagnosed with PMDD yesterday. I have severe PMS symtoms and without really investigating, my doctor prescribed Sarafem. These violent mood swings that accure after ovulation have just about destroyed my life. No one can stand to be around me for 2 1/2 weeks of the month. It is disrupting my job, my social life and my love life. I am very interested to know how your Sarafem is working for you.
SunnieHi Sunnie. I'm a fellow pmdd sufferer. it is terrible. i took sarafem for awhile and it worked wonders. please realize that it's actually prozac and now that there is generic prozac avalible.....it could be much cheaper. i took the pills everyday....some docs recommend using it for only 10-14 days out of the month....when you need it. i noticed it worked within 2 weeks.....my period "snuck up" on me...no pms at all.
but i did have some side effects so i stopped using it and went to wellbutrin sr. i wish my doc would have just augmented the sarafem with wellbutrin instead of taking me off it....but try it by itself first. it really reallly worked for me.
amie
ps..i used prozac because it was cheaper than sarafem...fyi.
Posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 15:14:53
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 15, 2001, at 12:53:57
Thanks Amie,
I have been very nervous about using this. I don't mean to sound silly but I am very concerned about the affects to my sex drive. My relationship is in jeapordy as it is with all this emotional upheavel, I didn't want to wipe out the only thread I have left. I know he loves me, but it has been very hard on him the past 8 months. Sex is just about the only thing going good for us right now. Some of the other side affects really bother me too. I pulled it up on the internet and it sounds real scary. If you don't mind me asking, what do you do for PMDD now?
Thanks again for all your information. Sunnie
Posted by akrake on August 16, 2001, at 16:09:37
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » akrake, posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 15:14:53
>Sunnie, i would try the sarafem if i were you. it worked great for me within 2 weeks. i had sexual side effects, but that doesn't mean you will too. right now i'm taking wellbutrin sr with klonopin (when i need it). it's not working as well as i'd like it too....but i'm going to give it 12 weeks.
then if it doesn't work, i'm going to go back to sarafem on the 2 week schedule to see if that will work.
good luck to you.
amieThanks Amie,
>
> I have been very nervous about using this. I don't mean to sound silly but I am very concerned about the affects to my sex drive. My relationship is in jeapordy as it is with all this emotional upheavel, I didn't want to wipe out the only thread I have left. I know he loves me, but it has been very hard on him the past 8 months. Sex is just about the only thing going good for us right now. Some of the other side affects really bother me too. I pulled it up on the internet and it sounds real scary. If you don't mind me asking, what do you do for PMDD now?
>
> Thanks again for all your information. Sunnie
Posted by payne on August 31, 2001, at 18:11:16
In reply to i would try it if i were you! » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 16, 2001, at 16:09:37
Has anyone here been involved with a clinical trial for an investigational drug for PMDD? I recently answered an ad for a study for PMS. I met with a study team member and their psychologist and was told I have PMDD. Honestly, this fits and it's about time that I can explain what happens to me. Classic symptoms. The drug they are studying is a Monophasic OCP, containing Drospirenone and Estradiol. I really don't want to take a psychotropic medication yet. I've tried herbal, and attempted lifestyle changes---however, the lack of self-control in the days before my period makes inforcing a diet, when you feel like eating the contents of a grocery store, a little difficult to say the least. My girlfriends have had mixed results while on OCP with their physical symptoms. Yet, I want to change the emotional symptoms. Anybody have any insights on this? Thanks.
Posted by payne on August 31, 2001, at 18:12:22
In reply to i would try it if i were you! » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 16, 2001, at 16:09:37
Has anyone here been involved with a clinical trial for an investigational drug for PMDD? I recently answered an ad for a study for PMS. I met with a study team member and their psychologist and was told I have PMDD. Honestly, this fits and it's about time that I can explain what happens to me. Classic symptoms. The drug they are studying is a Monophasic OCP, containing Drospirenone and Estradiol. I really don't want to take a psychotropic medication yet. I've tried herbal, and attempted lifestyle changes---however, the lack of self-control in the days before my period makes inforcing a diet, when you feel like eating the contents of a grocery store, a little difficult to say the least. My girlfriends have had mixed results while on OCP with their physical symptoms. Yet, I want to change the emotional symptoms. Anybody have any insights on this? Thanks.
Posted by susan C on September 1, 2001, at 14:58:35
In reply to Clinical trials, posted by payne on August 31, 2001, at 18:12:22
I know Estradiol is one of three estrogens. Don't know about the other one.
sc
> Has anyone here been involved with a clinical trial for an investigational drug for PMDD? I recently answered an ad for a study for PMS. I met with a study team member and their psychologist and was told I have PMDD. Honestly, this fits and it's about time that I can explain what happens to me. Classic symptoms. The drug they are studying is a Monophasic OCP, containing Drospirenone and Estradiol. I really don't want to take a psychotropic medication yet. I've tried herbal, and attempted lifestyle changes---however, the lack of self-control in the days before my period makes inforcing a diet, when you feel like eating the contents of a grocery store, a little difficult to say the least. My girlfriends have had mixed results while on OCP with their physical symptoms. Yet, I want to change the emotional symptoms. Anybody have any insights on this? Thanks.
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