The European Commission has granted EU marketing authorisation for zuranolone, a medicine to treat postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is a mental health condition that can affect women following childbirth and is marked by persistent sadness, anxiety, fatigue and difficulty functioning. It can be severe and long-lasting, with negative consequences for the mother and child. There are currently no specific treatments approved for this condition and standard antidepressants often do not take effect quickly enough.
The authorisation is based on the positive scientific assessment from the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The benefit of zuranolone is its ability to reduce depressive symptoms related to postpartum depression after two weeks of treatment. Zuranolone is subject to medical prescription and can have some side effects which are listed on the packaging. It should not be used in pregnancy and is not recommended for use when breastfeeding.
The Commission decision will soon be available online
Source: European Commission | Public Health | Latest updates (https://tinyurl.com/rfvf3te8)