Postpartum depression affects around 20% of women, causing symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and anxiety. It is treatable with therapy or medication. A recent study found that a single low-dose injection of esketamine immediately after birth reduced the risk of postpartum depression by 75% in those with prenatal depression. Esketamine, derived from ketamine, is approved for treatment-resistant depression. The study involved 364 pregnant individuals with prenatal depression who received either esketamine or a placebo. Esketamine was found to be safe and well-tolerated, with transient side effects. Administering low-dose esketamine after childbirth may be a promising treatment for preventing postpartum depression.
Source link