Review: minor analgesics are effective for primary dysmenorrhoea
Question What is the efficacy and safety of naproxen, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid, and aspirin for primary dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)?
Data sources
Studies from 1966 to March 1997 were identified by searching Medline, Embase/Excerpta Medica, and Science Citation Index using search terms including dysmenorrhoea, naproxen, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid, aspirin (acetylsalicyclic acid), and paracetamol (acetaminophen); reviewing bibliographies of relevant articles; and communicating with manufacturers.
Study selection
Published English language studies were selected if they were randomised controlled trials of naproxen, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid, aspirin, or paracetamol for dysmenorrhoea treatment.
Data extraction
Data were extracted on study design, type of dysmenorrhoea, treatment type and dosage regimen, patient characteristics, pain relief, need …
