Sarafem is a prescription antidepressant medication. It is made from the same ingredients as Prozac which was the first in a new line of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These medications are also known as SSRIs. Sarafem relieves the symptoms of depression while causing far fewer side effects than some of the older types of antidepressants.
Besides premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), Sarafem has also been approved for use in the following diseases:
- Major depressive disorder
- Bulimia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder, also known as OCD
PMDD can be diagnosed based on its common emotional symptoms:
- markedly depressed mood
- anxiety or tension
- explosive mood swings
- persistent anger or irritability
- decreased interest in usual activities
- trouble concentrating
- lack of energy
- change in appetite or sleep habits
- feeling out of control
It also is marked by these physical symptoms:
- breast tenderness
- headache
- joint and muscle pain
- bloating
- weight gain
It's important not to try self-diagnosing PMDD. If experiencing any of the above symptoms on a regular basis each month for a few days before, and then again during, menstruation, talk with a doctor. While Sarafem may not be right for every woman who has PMDD, studies show that 50 to 75% of women who took it did feel better.