Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of modifying Angiotensin II subtype 1 (AT.sub.1) receptor activity for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and the symptoms associated therewith, and further relates to a method for the treatment of acute or chronic pain mediated by the sympathetic nervous system. The treatment includes the administration of an effective amount of an AT.sub.1 antagonist. AT.sub.1 antagonists are drugs that are capable of blocking AT.sub.1 receptors present within the body throughout the central nervous system including the hypothalamus. By blocking the AT.sub.1 receptor activity, hypothalamic nerve activity, and therefore, sympathetic nerve activity are modulated. Thus, an effective method for treating sympathetically mediated pain is provided, as well as an effective method for treating PMS. The AT.sub.