Open-label placebos provided with a treatment rationale may significantly alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, as demonstrated in a randomized controlled trial. The study involved 150 women with moderate to severe PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The group receiving placebo with treatment rationale experienced lower symptom intensity and interference compared to other groups, with high adherence and minimal side effects. These findings suggest the potential for placebos an ethical, non-pharmacological intervention for PMS, especially for patients seeking alternatives to standard treatments with undesirable side effects.

Source: BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine