THE COMPARISON OF EVENING PRIMROSE OIL, FRUCTUS AGNI CASTI AND REASSURANCE IN THE TREATMENT OF MASTALGIA

Background: Although many therapeutic options have been used in the treatment of mastalgia, none of those has a curative effect. Aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of evening primrose oil, Fructus Agni Casti and reassurance on mastalgia, in comparison to placebo. Methods: This is a prospective clinical study on the effectiveness of evening primrose oil, Fructus Agni Casti and reassurance in the treatment of mastalgia. One hundred twenty-eight female patients with mastalgia were placed randomly into four groups: (1) evening primrose oil, (2) Fructus Agni Casti, (3) reassurance, and (4) placebo, for the treatment of 3 months. The severity and type of mastalgia were evaluated according to the Breast Pain Questionnaire. Response to treatment was assessed by the Cardiff Breast Pain scoring system. RESULTS: Fructus Agni Casti group had a more effective therapeutic response when compared with other groups. Reassurance and evening primrose oil groups had similar effects on reducing breast pain. The worst response to treatment was obtained in the placebo group. During follow-up, no serious adverse effect was observed. CONCLUSION: Fructus Agni Casti can be used in mastalgia patients with a high success rate and less adverse effect profile. Reassurance may be an important part of mastalgia management, due to the psychological basis of this entity.