GABA receptors, progesterone and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is characterized by depression, anxiety and other affective symptoms which recur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Evidence from animal models of depression and anxiety indicate the importance of neuroactive steroid hormones and the GABA(A) receptor in the etiology and potential treatment of mood disorders. These data are reviewed in the light of human clinical studies and specific animal models of PMDD.