title: Primary dysmenorrhea treatment with a desogestrel-containing low-dose oral contraceptive.
abstract: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled exploratory study examined the efficacy and safety of a low-dose oral contraceptive (Mircette), desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol [DSG/EE] and ethinyl estradiol [EE]) in relieving the symptoms of dysmenorrhea. Twenty-three clinics in the United States enrolled 77 women (age < or =32 years) with primary dysmenorrhea documented for at least four consecutive cycles. Forty participants received DSG/EE&EE and 37 received placebo for four consecutive 28-day cycles. The intensity of menstrual-related distress was measured with the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ). Patient diaries were used to assess number of school/work days missed as well as the use of rescue medication. Participants receiving DSG/EE&EE recorded reduced menstrual pain severity, lower total MDQ scores, and significantly less menstrual cramping. No significant change in bloating, anxiety, loneliness, weight gain, or acne was reported. The DSG/EE&EE formulation shows promise for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and was well tolerated by the participants in this study.
authors.affiliation: Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. shendrix@med.wayne.edu
authors.forename: Susan L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Hendrix
authors.forename: Nancy J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Alexander
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003280:Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D017135:Desogestrel / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004412:Dysmenorrhea / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004997:Ethinyl Estradiol / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D006261:Headache / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D010919:Placebos; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D003280:Contraceptives, Oral, Synthetic; D010919:Placebos; D004997:Ethinyl Estradiol; D017135:Desogestrel