(25News Now) – A local midwife sees hope for a recently approved FDA drug to treat postpartum depression.
The oral medication is called Zurzuvae, also known as Zuranolone.
According to the CDC, one in eight women suffer from postpartum depression, which has severe effects.
“So, not bonding well with your baby is a huge one, not wanting to take care of yourself or the baby [is another],” said Kristen Hufford-Tims, who is a certified nurse midwife at Carle Health.
Without intervention, the condition can lead to suicidal or homicidal thoughts, said Hufford-Tims.
Mayo Clinic says on its website there is no one reason why postpartum depression occurs. It could be a variety of reasons including genetics, physical changes, or emotional issues.
“One of the most expected reasons why it happens is because of the hormonal changes in the mother taking place just after giving birth. Hufford-Tims said life experiences can lead to the postpartum condition.
This past August, the FDA approved Zuranolone to treat postpartum depression. The FDA recommends a daily dose of 50mg for 14 days. Hufford-Tims says she is cautious when it comes to giving her patients a fairly new drug.
“We’re still kind of watching and waiting for new data and new outcomes to come out so we can be informed and make the best recommendations for our patients,” said Hufford-Tims.
This 14-day treatment medication costs $15,900 dollars according to the Good Rx website.
“Not all of our patients have access to health insurance. There are so many things we have to think about when we’re deciding to prescribe therapy to women,” said Hufford-Tims.
Hufford-Tims said she is hopeful for the future of this medication as an alternative to other treatments.
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