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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, or PMDD, is a distinct medical condition. It is characterized by intense mood symptoms, such as irritability, sudden mood changes, tension and sadness. PMDD also includes physical symptoms, such as bloating and breast tenderness. Symptoms are limited to the week or two before a woman's period and clearly interfere with day-to-day activities and relationships. PMDD won't go away by itself. And left untreated, it can worsen with age. By understanding what may cause PMDD and what can be done to relieve its symptoms, you can feel more like the woman you are. |
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What causes PMDD? While PMDD is not fully understood, many doctors believe it is caused by an imbalance of a chemical in the body called serotonin. The normal cyclical changes in female hormones may interact with these chemicals including serotonin, and may result in the mood and physical symptoms of PMDD. And although you may seem like you only suffer a few days a month, over time these days can add up to almost one quarter of your childbearing years. The good news is your doctor can now treat PMDD symptoms with a new treatment called Sarafem. Can Sarafem Help? New Sarafem is the first and only FDA-approved prescription treatment for both the mood and physical symptoms of PMDD. Safe enough to take daily, Sarafem works on the imbalance of serotonin in the body. Many doctors believe that this imbalance can cause the symptoms of PMDD. And for many women, Sarafem can bring relief of their mood swings, irritability, bloating…by their next monthly period. What should you know about Sarafem? If you develop a rash while taking Sarafem, call your doctor right away because a rash can be a sign of a serious illness. If you take MAO inhibitors, you should not take Sarafem. You must also wait at least two weeks after you have stopped taking an MAO inhibitor before you start taking Sarafem. And don't take MAO inhibitors for at least five weeks after stopping Sarafem. Thioridazine should not be administered with Sarafem or within a minimum of five weeks after Sarafem has been discontinued. Some women may experience side effects such as tiredness, upset stomach, nervousness, dizziness and difficulty concentrating. Side effects are usually mild and tend to go away within a few weeks. Sarafem contains the same active ingredient as Prozac® (fluoxetine hydrochloride). Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing or planning on becoming pregnant. |
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