Researchers have revealed through new study that small amount of Prozac could end the monthly misery of PMT for millions of women. It was found that the happy pill exiled the mood swings, bloating, lethargy and pain that impair the lives of more than three quarter of women.
The preliminary trails of the drug had show dramatic results and researchers from Birmingham University believe that low dose of Prozac could be used regularly to prevent PMT (pre-menstrual syndrome) within two years. The symptoms of PMT may include jaggy fall in the levels of progesterone hormone that happen during the week before menstruation.
Usually, a squander produce of progesterone known as allopregnanolone or allo that help in keeping a cap on brain circuits involved in controlling emotions. On dropping progesterone levels the amount of allo also drop and emotion sprint riot. Researchers decided to see if Prozac known to raise the levels would ease the condition in mice.
It was found that very little quantity of drug can entirely prevent the anxiety and increased sensitivity to pain which mice usually experience. It completely blocked the symptoms. The time is perfect to controlled clinical trial in women, explained Neuroscientist Thelma Lovick. The solution for PMS could be as easy as taking a pill for a few days towards the end of menstrual cycle.
It is expected women would take a pill at the first signs of PMT and take one each day for the subsequent week. By controlling the stress, changes in lifestyle and expurgation sugary foods could have major impact on millions. Prozac boost depression by increasing levels of feel good brain chemical serotonin but it can cause problems like loss of libido and suicidal thoughts.
Taking very low doses, approximately a tenth of those used to cure depression, should not activate any side-effects. This is because although very small doses raise levels of allo, they do not have any effect on serotonin. A daily dose of regular strength Prozac is already sometimes prescribed to ease PMT, added Dr Lovick.