Current Developments in the Treatment of Postpartum Depression: Zuranolone

Abstract

Pregnancy is a period in a woman’s life during which she experiences physiological, psychological, and social changes. These changes can lead to various mental illnesses, including postpartum depression (PPD), which is common during the perinatal period. Postpartum depression is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality for both the mother and baby. A peripartum-onset major depressive episode is defined as PPD when it occurs during pregnancy or up to 4 weeks postpartum. The frequency of this condition is extremely high. Its etiology is influenced by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Depressed mood, anhedonia, feelings of guilt, irritability, lack of concentration, psychomotor agitation or retardation, sleep disturbance, and changes in appetite and weight can all be symptoms of PPD. There are various treatment options available, many of which are adapted from those used for major depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, estradiol, progesterone, psychotherapies, electroconvulsive therapy, and brexanolone can be used to treat PPD. In addition, the newest drug approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for this condition is oral zuranolone. This review aims to analyze recent developments on zuranolone, the latest drug approved by the FDA for PPD, based on current studies.