They are more effective if taken as soon as the headache or cramps begin. Don't wait until the discomfort is severe. Hormonal medications may be tried. Depo-Provera helps many women but if you don't like it you're stuck with it for 3 months. If used they should contain a potassium sparing ingredient like spironolactone.
Tranquilizers can be useful in some situations.
This is very expensive and would only be used in severe cases.