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Date of Award

Spring 2024

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Lisa Akselrad

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD), a variety of major depressive disorder, affects approximately one in seven women worldwide. It can have severe negative consequences on the wellbeing of mothers and their infants. Standard pharmacological management of PPD prior to 2019 included antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs and TCAs. However, it is important to recognize the impact of postpartum physiological changes on development of postpartum depression and how treatment targeting these changes can be beneficial. Current standard pharmacological treatment with antidepressants typically requires several weeks to take full effect. However, rapid development of depressive symptoms in a period critical for mother-baby bonding necessitates more rapid treatments. In the past few years, research into the pathophysiology of PPD skyrocketed, leading to the development of new PPD specific pharmacological treatments. This article reviews the mechanism of action, administration, adverse effects and research surrounding two newly FDA approved medications for PPD: Brexanolone and Zuranolone. These novel medications are especially valuable in providing more rapid improvement in symptoms than traditional treatments.

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Updates on Pharmacological Management of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD), a variety of major depressive disorder, affects approximately one in seven women worldwide. It can have severe negative consequences on the wellbeing of mothers and their infants. Standard pharmacological management of PPD prior to 2019 included antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs and TCAs. However, it is important to recognize the impact of postpartum physiological changes on development of postpartum depression and how treatment targeting these changes can be beneficial. Current standard pharmacological treatment with antidepressants typically requires several weeks to take full effect. However, rapid development of depressive symptoms in a period critical for mother-baby bonding necessitates more rapid treatments. In the past few years, research into the pathophysiology of PPD skyrocketed, leading to the development of new PPD specific pharmacological treatments. This article reviews the mechanism of action, administration, adverse effects and research surrounding two newly FDA approved medications for PPD: Brexanolone and Zuranolone. These novel medications are especially valuable in providing more rapid improvement in symptoms than traditional treatments.