Persistence of premenstrual syndrome during low-dose administration of the progesterone antagonist RU 486.

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.