Which medication is commonly prescribed for severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

• A. Sertraline
• B. Fluoxetine
• C. Both Sertraline and Fluoxetine
• D. Ibuprofen

Answer: (C)

Severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, and the management of this condition often involves the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) due to their effectiveness in alleviating both mood and physical symptoms associated with PMS. Both Sertraline and Fluoxetine are SSRIs that have been found to be effective in treating the emotional and psychological symptoms of PMS, including irritability, depression, and anxiety.

Research has shown that SSRIs can lead to improvement in symptoms when taken continuously or during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, making them a first-line treatment option for severe cases. Furthermore, the ability of both medications to address the multifaceted nature of PMS symptoms is a key reason why they are often prescribed.

In contrast, while Ibuprofen is effective for relieving physical symptoms such as pain and discomfort associated with PMS, it does not address the psychological aspects of the syndrome. Therefore, it is not considered a primary treatment for the full spectrum of severe PMS symptoms. Thus, the inclusion of both Sertraline and Fluoxetine as effective treatments leads to the selection of the option that includes both medications.