Pain Medication for PMS

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects some women before their monthly menstrual period. Symptoms may include cramps, mood swings, back pain, breast tenderness and depression. Over-the-counter and prescription pain medication can be used to treat pain associated with PMS.

Function

Pain medications may be prescribed or recommended by a doctor for women who are unable to function or experience extreme discomfort due to premenstrual syndrome.

Types

Over-the-counter pain medications recommended by doctors for PMS include acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen. Doctors may also prescribe birth control pills to reduce pain and other symptoms of PMS.

Time Frame

Most over-the-counter pain medications should be taken every four to six hours and should be taken according to the label. Prescription birth control pills should be taken once per day.

Effects

Side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen include heartburn, upset stomach, ulcers and rashes on the skin, swelling of the face or legs, confusion, and urine decrease. Side effects of birth control pills include weight gain, mood swings, skin darkening, breast tenderness, nausea and spotting.

Considerations

B6 vitamins and a multivitamin containing calcium may be recommended in conjunction with pain medication to prevent PMS symptoms, including breast tenderness, cramps and back pain.

References

• Mayo Clinic: PMS
• US Department of Health and Human Services:
• Coping With PMS; Barbara Moe; 1998

Resources

• Family Doctor: PMS
• Health: Stay Alert for the Most Common Side Effects of NSAIDs
• Feminist Women's Health Center: Birth Control Pill

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Photo Credit

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