BETA-ENDORPHIN DECLINE IN LATE LUTEAL PHASE DYSPHORIC DISORDER

The β-endorphin hypothesis of late luteal phase dysphoric disorder (premenstrual syndrome or L2D2) was tested. Twenty-two PMS patients were compared to twenty-two controls. Levels of β-endorphin, ACTH, FSH, LH, cortisol, prolactin and TRH were measured on the first and twentieth days after menses. PMS subjects exhibited a significantly greater drop in the opiate, β-endorphin, (p < .001) than controls. No relationship or significant e was seen with the other hormones/transmitters tested. The symptoms of PMS may be due to noradrenergic rebound following β-endorphin decline. Symptomatic and pharmacological morphine withdrawal and manic phase of bipolar disorder are discussed as possible models for L2D2.