Finally, There's a Pill That Can Treat Postpartum Depression

A groundbreaking advancement in maternal mental health has been achieved with the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA)'s approval of Zurzuvae (generic name zuranolone) as the first-ever oral medication for adults dealing with postpartum depression (PPD) on August 4.

Prescribed for a 14-day course, this pill will be available commercially in the fourth quarter of 2023.

In 2019, the US FDA approved brexanolone, the first-ever drug to treat PPD, which comes in the form of an intravenous (IV) infusion drip.

Dr. Tiffany Farchione, the director of the FDA's Division of Psychiatry in the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, highlighted the significance of this approval in a statement, "Postpartum depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which women experience sadness, guilt, worthlessness—even, in severe cases, thoughts of harming themselves or their child. And, because postpartum depression can disrupt the maternal-infant bond, it can also have consequences for the child’s physical and emotional development."

She emphasized that access to an oral medication is a valuable option for women dealing with intense and potentially life-threatening emotions. 

READ ALSO: Is it Postpartum Depression or Baby Blues?

Globally, postpartum depression affects one out of every seven mothers, making it a leading contributor to maternal mortality, according to the World Health Organization.

However, it's important to note that while Zurzuvae is a breakthrough for postpartum depression, its effectiveness in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) has not yet been established.

Wendy N. Davis, PHD, PMH-C, executive director at Postpartum Support International, welcomed this development, saying, "Today’s approval is welcome news for the estimated 500,000 women in the United States who report experiencing symptoms of this devastating and often misunderstood illness each year."

She further added, "Women with PPD desperately need prompt care and additional treatment options that can provide quick relief so they can be healthy and present during this momentous time in their lives."

READ ALSO: 'Naaawa Ako Sa Anak Ko'—A Mom's Letter To The Baby She Neglected Because Of Postpartum Depression

What you need to know about the postpartum depression pill Zurzuvae

According to the Biogen website, one of the manufacturers of Zurzuvae, the medication may lead to the following side effects:

• Impaired ability to drive or engage in risky activities
• Reduced alertness, potentially affecting safe driving and hazardous tasks
• Induced drowsiness, slow thinking, dizziness, confusion, and unsteady walking, increasing the risk of falls
• Intensification of these effects and potential breathing difficulties when combined with alcohol, CNS depressants, or opioids
• Possibility of suicidal thoughts and behavior

While this medication marks a significant stride in maternal mental health, it's crucial to continue building a strong support system for mothers moving forward. Read here three ways you can help.

Call these helplines if you recognize postpartum depression symptoms in you:

Rapha Helpline free online care and support

Globe (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays) 8am-5pm 09776520230

Viber (Mondays and Wednesdays) 09617182654

(Tuesdays and Thursdays) 09617182658

(Fridays) 09677182655 

Hopeline, 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support helpline.

Smart:  09188734673

Globe: 09175584673 / 2919

PLDT: (02) 88044673

In Touch Philippines, 24/7 Crisis Hotline

Smart: 09228938944

Globe: 09178001123

Landline:  (02) 88937603

Counselling Service: (02) 88931893