In a patient with severe premenstrual syndrome, which therapeutic approach is likely to provide symptom relief?

In the case of severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are recognized as an effective treatment option. SSRIs are a class of medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can help alleviate mood-related symptoms commonly associated with PMS, such as irritability, depression, and anxiety. This approach is particularly useful for patients who experience significant emotional symptoms in conjunction with physical symptoms during their premenstrual phase.

While weight loss programs and exercise regimens can have positive effects on general health and may be helpful for some symptoms related to PMS, they do not specifically target the mood disturbances that characterize severe PMS. Anxiolytics may provide relief from anxiety symptoms but are not typically the first-line treatment for PMS and do not address the broader spectrum of symptoms experienced by patients.

Thus, the use of SSRIs is a well-established and targeted strategy for managing the psychological symptoms of severe PMS, making it the most appropriate choice for symptom relief in these patients.