The treatment of premenstrual symptoms with mefenamic acid.

Thirty-seven patients suffering from premenstrual symptoms were each studied through three menstrual cycles. After a control cycle, mefenamic acid and placebo were given during the luteal phase of the cycle in a random double-blind cross over manner, each patient serving as her own control. The dosage of mefenamic acid was 500 mg thrice daily. Medication significantly improved premenstrual symptoms, particularly tension, irritability, depression, pain and headache. It was not effective for breast symptoms. Most patients complaining of premenstrual symptoms also had menstrual symptoms, which were also improved by the mefenamic acid.