Comparison of the Effect of Achilles Wilhelmsii and Mefenamic acid on Primary Dysmenorrhea in Dormitories' Students of Medical Science of Tabriz University.

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological complaint that could disrupt the personal lives and it is known to affect up to 90% of women. Although there are some pharmaceutical treatments, but due to their side effects, other alternative treatments are becoming increasingly popular. We intended to compare the effectiveness of Achillea Wilhelmsii and Mefenamic acid in the treatment of girls having primary dysmenorrhea. Method: Randomized, double –blind, 2 cycles crossover trial conducted in single, sexually inactive girls. Eighthly girls who had primary dysmenorrhea, regular menstrual cycles, and pain score of 5 or higher on Visual Analog Scale (VAS) entered the study, but 10 were lost due to different reasons. The study was conducted over 3 menstrual cycles as follows: 1) at cycle 1 (baseline cycle) pain severity was measured in first day of menstruation; 2) at cycle 2, the girls were randomly assigned to take A. Wilhelmsii or Mefenamic acid at recommended doses when they needed; 3) at cycle 3, the participants switched treatments. The pain intensity was recorded at regular scheduled intervals (1, 2, 3 and 6 hours) after taking the study medication. The study protocol was authorized by the university bioethics committee and all participants signed an informed consent form. Results: The mean ±SD of age of patients was 25.67±2.44 years. In comparison with baseline, pain intensity decrease was significant with both Mefenamic acid and A. Wilhelmsii (p<0.001) But the pain relief of Achillea was significantly great (p<0.01). The menstrual blood loss (p=0.02), associated signs with dysmenorrhea (p=0.001), the duration of bleeding and pain (p=0.001) in A. Wilhelmsii treated group were less than of Mefenamic acid. Conclusion: A. Wilhelmsii capsule, when taken in safe dose was more effective in alleviating pain and bleeding associated with primary dysmenorrhea than Mefenamic acid.