Antidepressant Treatment for Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Inclusion Criteria: * DSM-IV criteria for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) * For a diagnosis of PMS but not PMDD, patients must have 3 to 4 symptoms, complain of functional impairment as a result of their symptoms, and identify symptoms as problematic enough to warrant treatment * Symptoms of PMS/PMDD in at least 9 of 12 menstrual cycles during the year prior to screening * Symptom-free during the follicular phase and impairment during the luteal phase * Regular menstrual cycles * Adequate methods of birth control Exclusion Criteria: * Major depression, bipolar disorder, or psychotic disorders * Hepatitis or hepatic failure * Amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, blood dyscrasias, or illnesses for which monoamine oxidase inhibitors must be prescribed * Follicular phase symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of major depression, bipolar disorder, or psychotic disorders * Co-existing condition that renders the patient unsuitable for the study * Risk of suicide * Antidepressants or other psychotropic medication * Hypersensitivity or adverse reaction to sertraline * Pregnancy, breast-feeding, or plans to become pregnant during the course of the study * Depot hormonal preparation or any other medication that would lead to lack of menses or markedly irregular menses