Diuretics have been commonly prescribed, but never proven effective for mastalgia. Discomfort was significantly reduced in women with either cyclical or noncyclical mastalgia, while no significant improvement was seen in the control. The most common dose of EPO is 3 grams per day for cyclic mastalgia. Oral contraceptives can be helpful, although many women notice increasing tenderness during the first few cycles while taking the pill. This discomfort generally subsides within 3 months and any beneficial effect is seen within the first 3 - 6 months of use.
Tamoxifen is an anti-estrogen that is used to treat or prevent breast cancer.
Vitex is a herbal preparation that can equilibrate the hormone levels in women with cyclic mastalgia and premenstrual syndrome. It has been shown to be effective when used over several months.9 Forty milligrams per day of the dried herb is common, though the dose depends upon the manufacturer. Other medications used in the past include danazol and bromocriptine. They are not routinely used because of side effects. There is some evidence that danazol may be effectively used in the premenstrual time with limited side effects.