Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea

The physiology of primary dysmenorrhea and its treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents are reviewed. Primary dysmenorrhea involves incapacitating pelvic pain associated with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Currently, it is thought to be caused by an overproduction of prostaglandins that are released as the endometrium degenerates. Since the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents are one class of antiprostaglandin agents, they are frequently prescribed for the relief of dysmenorrhea. Naproxen and naproxen sodium have both been shown to be superior to placebo in subjective and objective assessments of dysmenorrheic patients when administered at the onset of symptoms. Indomethacin studies demonstrate its efficacy over placebo, but the frequency of side effects at the doses used (25-50 mg t.i.d.) diminish its usefulness. Few placebo-controlled studies have been published on ibuprofen, but the studies that have been performed show that ibuprofen is more beneficial than placebo for treating dysmenorrhea with a low incidence of side effects. The fenamates appear to be effective in dysmenorrhea, although they were not studied extensively with placebo and previous experience with mefenamic acid has led to warnings about side effects. Phenylbutazone and oxyphenbutazone have been found to be effective; however, their use has been less frequent since the introduction of the newer less toxic nonsteroidal agents. Comparative studies of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents have not indicated that one agent is more effective than the others. Until further well-controlled comparative research is performed, any of the agents reviewed would be an appropriate choice in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.