A new monophasic oral contraceptive containing drospirenone. Effect on premenstrual symptoms

To determine whether a new monophasic oral contraceptive containing drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol reduces premenstrual symptoms.

In an open-label study measuring intrasubject changes in premenstrual symptoms and comparing effects between women who were new users of oral contraceptives and those who switched from previous contraceptives, ethinyl estradiol (30 micrograms) and drospirenone (3 mg) were administered for 13 menstrual cycles to 326 healthy women aged 18-35 years. Subjects completed the 23-item Women's Health Assessment Questionnaire at baseline and at the end of the sixth cycle.

At the end of cycle 6, premenstrual and menstrual symptom scores on the negative affect and water retention scales were reduced significantly relative to baseline, as was increased appetite during the premenstrual and menstrual phases. Similar improvements were seen among new users of hormonal contraceptives and those who switched from previous contraceptives. Impaired concentration scale scores were not significantly reduced from baseline, and assessments of undesired hair changes and feelings of well-being did not change appreciably.

An oral contraceptive containing drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol may reduce the premenstrual symptoms of negative affect, water retention and increased appetite.