21 million people affected worldwide 1

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects approximately 15% of women within a year of giving birth, making it one of the most common complications of childbirth. In developing countries, the rate can be as high as 20%. The condition impacts both mother and child development, with potential long-term effects on family well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased PPD rates, with some studies showing rates as high as 25% during this period.

Current Treatments 1

Standard treatments include SSRIs, psychotherapy, and in severe cases, brexanolone (Zulresso) - the first FDA-approved medication specifically for PPD. However, traditional antidepressants can take 4-6 weeks to show effect, and brexanolone requires a 60-hour hospital stay for administration. Many women are reluctant to take medications while breastfeeding, leading to undertreatment, with an estimated 50% of cases going undiagnosed or untreated.

Psychedelic research currently is in Phase IIb

Research into psychedelics for PPD is relatively new but promising, with several Phase II trials underway. Studies are particularly focused on rapid-acting compounds like ketamine and its derivatives, which could provide quick relief from symptoms. Ongoing trials are carefully examining safety profiles considering the postpartum period and breastfeeding concerns. MDMA and psilocybin trials are in planning stages, with protocols being developed specifically for the maternal population.

Some preliminary research has been done to see if psychedelics can help with postpartum depression, the depression experienced by mothers in the months after giving childbirth.

This topic is currently a stub, it will be expanded upon in the near future.

Highlighted Institutes

These are the institutes, from companies to universities, who are working on Postpartum Depression.

Highlighted People

These are some of the best-known people, from researchers to entrepreneurs, working on Postpartum Depression.

Dong-Xin Wang

Dong-Xin Wang is a Professor and Chairman of the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at Peking University First Hospital.

Linked Research Papers & Trials

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