Allopregnanolone in Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a debilitating psychiatric disorder characterized by a high worldwide prevalence and serious long-term negative outcomes for both mothers and children. The lack of a specific treatment and overreliance on pharmacotherapy with limited efficacy and delayed treatment response has constituted a complication in the management of PPD. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA approved a synthetic formulation of the GABAergic neurosteroid allopregnanolone, administered intravenously (brexanolone) for the rapid, long-lasting and effective treatment of PPD. Hereinafter, we review findings on allopregnanolone biosynthesis and GABA(A) receptor plasticity in the pathophysiology of PPD. We also discuss evidence supporting the efficacy of brexanolone for the treatment of PPD, which opens a promising new horizon for neurosteroid-based therapeutics for mood disorders.

Automated summary

Postpartum depression is a common and severe psychiatric disorder that negatively affects the health of both mothers and children. Current treatment options are limited and often result in delayed response. However, the recent approval of a synthetic GABAergic neurosteroid by the FDA offers a promising new treatment for postpartum depression, providing rapid, long-lasting, and effective results.