Prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. Outcome trials reviewed.

Abstract

Clinical trials of prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors (PGSIs) prescribed for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea were reviewed as to pain relief effectiveness, frequency and nature of side effects, and methodological adequacy. The review investigated 51 PGSI trials for a total of 1,649 women and 682 menstrual cycles and found that, over all, 72% of dysmenorrheic women reported significant pain relief to PGSI, 18% reported minimal or no pain relief, and 15% showed placebo response. Comparisons among the fenamatic compounds, ibuprofen, indomethacin, and naproxen showed the fenamates to be more effective in providing pain relief. PGSI-associated side effects were minimal for all PGSIs with the exception of indomethacin. Results were evaluated with respect to several methodological problems. Conclusions were drawn that despite these shortcomings, PGSIs are undoubtedly effective and safe for the majority of women with primary dysmenorrhea.

• Authors: P R Owen
• Journal: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology (Am J Obstet Gynecol) Vol. 148 Issue 1 Pg. 96-103 (Jan 01 1984) ISSN: 0002-9378 [Print] United States
• PMID: 6419611 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
• Mefenamic Acid
• Naproxen
• Flufenamic Acid
• Ibuprofen
• Indomethacin

Topics

• Clinical Trials as Topic
• Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
• Dysmenorrhea (drug therapy)
• Female
• Flufenamic Acid (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Ibuprofen (therapeutic use)
• Indomethacin (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Mefenamic Acid (therapeutic use)
• Naproxen (therapeutic use)