It stated: "at least five of the following 11 symptoms for a diagnosis to be
made (of PMS): > mood swings, irritability, tension, depressed mood,
decreased interest
> in usual activities, difficulty concentrating, lack of energy, marked
> change in appetite, insomnia/ hypersomnia, feeling overwhelmed and
> bloating and breast tenderness.
These symptoms are all common to 'Cushing's Syndrome' ie that symptomology that results from excess cortisol in the body. I understand that high levels of 'progesterone' experienced by women in the latter half of the menstrual cycle can, of itself, lead to high cortisol levels. Endocrinolgy is a much unresearched science (a sufferer of an endocrine disease gets to know this pretty quickly).
How do I know this? I suffer from 'Cushing's Disease' and have done considerable personal research on the the subject.
I also have an article that links SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as 'Prozac' to an increase in cortisol levels in the body. Thus, theoretically and logically Prozac could worsen the situation for women.
I have opted out of surgery as a treatment option for myself and do, in fact, take an antidepressant to help alleviate the excess cortisol in my body (I've been told by 8 endocrinologists that my excess cortisol is caused by a pituitary tumour however).
Nevertheless, Tofrinal (a tricyclic antidepressant) along with a regime of vitamins, flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil and minerals has helped me significantly. Perhaps other sufferers might like to try this regime..or maybe just the supplements (as the supplements alone will probably alleviate PMS anyway..according to my reading again).
Hope this helps Brenda Rosser