Evidence supporting the use of: Acetylsalicylic acid
For the health condition: PMS (general)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), commonly known as aspirin, is sometimes used to help manage certain symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), particularly those related to pain such as headaches, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). The scientific justification for its use is based on its well-established analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. Aspirin inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which decreases the production of prostaglandins—compounds involved in pain and inflammation mechanisms. Elevated prostaglandin levels are associated with menstrual cramps and some somatic PMS symptoms.

However, while aspirin is effective in managing pain, robust, high-quality clinical studies specifically investigating its efficacy for the broader spectrum of PMS symptoms (which can include mood changes, bloating, and breast tenderness) are limited. Most evidence for its use is extrapolated from its ability to relieve pain rather than from direct clinical trials targeting PMS as a complex syndrome. Other medications, such as NSAIDs and hormonal treatments, are sometimes preferred depending on the symptom profile.

In summary, the use of acetylsalicylic acid for PMS is scientifically justified primarily for pain-related symptoms, and the evidence supporting its use in this context is moderate (rated 3/5). Its role in addressing non-pain PMS symptoms is not well established by scientific studies.

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