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Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates

Brexanolone: A Quick Fix for Postpartum Depression and Anxiety?

Feb 1, 2024
Dr. Vivien Burt, a specialist in postpartum depression and anxiety, discusses brexanolone, an FDA-approved medication for postpartum depression. She explains its unique properties, including its quick onset of action and ongoing study for severe anxiety and insomnia. The podcast explores a randomized study on brexanolone, its effects on depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia. It also highlights the limitations of the study, administration method, potential side effects, and cost of the medication, while emphasizing its potential as a first-step treatment.
13:56

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Quick takeaways

  • Brexanolone, a synthetic form of alopregnanolone, is a rapid-acting medication that provides relief for postpartum depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
  • A study demonstrated that after a 60-hour infusion, Brexanolone significantly reduced depressive symptoms by 81.4% and also improved anxiety and insomnia in women with postpartum depression.

Deep dives

Brexanalone: A Breakthrough Treatment for Postpartum Depression

Brexanalone is a groundbreaking medication specifically designed for postpartum depression. With a unique formulation as a synthetic form of alopregnanolone, it acts as an antidepressant and a positive modulator of GABAA receptors. Unlike conventional antidepressants, Brexanalone works rapidly, often within a few days, providing relief for new mothers. However, it requires a continuous 60-hour infusion and close monitoring due to potential side effects such as sedation and loss of consciousness. A recent study demonstrated Brexanalone's efficacy in addressing symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, common in postpartum depression.

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