The effects of norethisterone in postmenopausal women on oestrogen replacement therapy: a model for the premenstrual syndrome.
The influence of norethisterone on mood and behaviour was investigated in prospective placebo-controlled study in 58 postmenopausal hysterectomized women who were being treated with subcutaneous oestradiol and testosterone implants. Norethisterone, 2.5 or 5 mg daily, was given for 7 days and a placebo for two periods of 7 days. Psychological, behavioural and physical variables were assessed using the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire. There were widespread adverse effects which were dose-related. Significant changes in five of the eight symptom complexes studied (pain, concentration, behavioural change, water retention and negative affect) were found with 5 mg/day of the progestogen. The symptoms were similar to the typical complaints of the premenstrual syndrome, such that a combination of oestradiol and testosterone implants with cyclical oral norethisterone appears to be a model for this condition. The dose of this progestogen should therefore be the minimum to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
D000328:Adult; D002979:Climacteric / Q000187:drug effects; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004958:Estradiol / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008593:Menopause; D008875:Middle Aged; D008954:Models, Biological; D009640:Norethindrone / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011293:Premenstrual Syndrome / Q000139:chemically induced*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013739:Testosterone / Q000627:therapeutic use
D013739:Testosterone; D004958:Estradiol; D009640:Norethindrone