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0 Postnatal depression, or PND, affects approximately one in ten new mothers in the UK, leading to persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety and fatigue. The traditional treatments often take weeks to show effects. However, this new medication gives new mothers a faster alternative.
What Is Zuranolone?
The drug, known as zuranolone and sold as Zurzuvae, is the first oral medication approved in the UK specifically for treating moderate to severe postnatal depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to become effective, zuranolone is taken as a 14-day course of tablets, giving new mothers a quicker option.
How It Works
Zuranolone functions by improving the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. This helps regulate mood and stress responses, giving rapid relief from depressive symptoms. Clinical trials have shown that many patients experience improvements within just a few days of starting the treatment.
Healthcare professionals supporting new mothers could use their trauma informed practice training, from atwww.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/trauma-informed-practice-training/, to better understand and respond to their patients who are experiencing postnatal depression.
Safety and Side Effects
While zuranolone offers promising benefits, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. Common issues reported include drowsiness, dizziness, memory impairment and fatigue. Additionally, the medication may cause confusion and tremors. Patients are advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery during treatment due to its sedative effects.
Availability and Considerations
Zuranolone has been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, MHRA, for use in the UK. It is available through secondary care services, such as psychiatric and perinatal mental health clinics.
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