Prostaglandin E, synthesis precursors in treatment of premenstrual tension syndrome

Abstract EN

The symptom complex known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) includes emotional, behavioral and physical manifestations associated with the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, Precursors of prostaglandin E were reported to be deficient in women with PMS.

The objective of this study was to evaluate, the acceptability and efficacy of prostaglandin E, precursors Linoleic acid and gammalinolenic acid (Evening Primrose Premenstrual syndrome.

One hundred fertile women aged 25-45 years suffering from incapacitating premenstrual syndrome were randomly assigned to start treatment with either Evening Primrose or placebo on daily basis during the 14 premenstrual days for 6 months.

The clients recorded their symptoms before starting and during the trial on a self assessment chart.

Patients sera were assayed for thromboxane B2.

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) gave a good result with 68% improvement when compared with a placebo 36%.

Depression was the most common symptom that responded to (EPO) treatment (78.4%) while irritability and Acne showed the least symptoms response to treatment 20% and 20.05 respectively.

Serum thromboxane B2 levels decreased during active treatment with primrose oil.

There were no reported side effects except nausea which was reported in 2 cases only (4%).

Treatment with Evening Primrose Oil leads to a significant improvement in depression and breast tenderness and is a safe therapy with minimal side effects.