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Post-Partum Depression

Post-Partum Depression

Isn’t it shocking that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Zulresso (Brexanolone) in March 2019? Who would have thought it would take this long to create a medication for Post-Partum Depression? After all, for how long have women been giving birth?

It is for others to lament the dearth of information about women’s health. That’s a whole other series of conversations. It is our stance to focus on celebrating breakthroughs.

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It is misleading to say Post-Partum Depression is a woman’s issue just as Prostate Cancer is a man’s issue. All conditions affect not only the one afflicted but those around them, from loved ones to co-workers and beyond.

We are proud to offer Zulresso. It is the only FDA-approved medication for Post-Partum Depression and it is also fast acting. Usually Zulresso is given in a hospital setting, you get it given in an infusion. That means you get it through an IV. What can we offer that a hospital lacks? Quiet and Privacy. We have a home environment that is designed much like a studio apartment with a refrigerator, television, dining table and bed. We have 24-hour nursing care that does not hover or disturb you constantly. However, they are there should you want to talk or need something.

We coordinate care with your other providers so you and your family will know you are taken care of.

Zulresso FAQ's

  1. How do I know if I have Post-Partum Depression? 
    The best way is to get evaluated by a trained professional.  Symptoms include but not limited to intense feelings of sadness, anxiety and despair that interfere with your daily functioning.  Symptoms typically start 1-3 weeks after giving birth but can start anywhere before your child turns 1.
  1. What is Zulresso? 
    It is a medication for Post-Partum Depression that is given through an intravenous (IV) infusion for 60 hours.  Since it is administered through an IV, you have to be in a place that can monitor you.
  1. Monitor me for what? 
    Nurses will be taking your vital signs and making sure you feel fine.  They will make sure the IV equipment is working properly.  We have amazing nurses.
  1. What are the common side effects? 
    Sleepiness, dry mouth, passing out, flushing of the skin or face.
  1. If it works, do I need to come back? 
    In clinical studies, moms generally still felt better 30 days after treatment.  You may not need to come back, but we recommend you have regular follow ups with a mental health provider or OB/GYN comfortable treating Post-Partum Depression.
  1. Can I breastfeed? 
    Zulresso passes through the breast milk.  Since the clinical trials excluded breastfeeding mothers, we discourage breastfeeding for at least the 2.5 days of the infusion.
  1. Is it expensive? 
    Some insurance companies such as Aetna cover Zulresso.  Since we do innovative treatments here at 1000 Main, we are used to working with insurance companies on a case by case basis to get medications and treatments covered.  Gone are the days when insurance was simpler.  There are so many plans within any given insurance company, that this simple question about coverage cannot always be answered simply.  We are not afraid to put in the hard work to try to get optimal Zulresso coverage for you.
  1. Where can I find out more about Zulresso and Post-Partum Depression?

http://www.zulresso.com/

https://womensmentalhealth.org/posts/a-primer-on-brexanolone-zulresso-for-postpartum-depression/