Brexanolone

Brexanolone was an IV treatment for postpartum depression. U.S. approval of Zulresso was withdrawn effective April 14, 2025, at the manufacturer’s request after it stopped marketing the medication.

This sheet explains the former treatment. It does not indicate that an infusion is currently available. Ask your provider about current postpartum-depression options.

Brexanolone is a formulation of allopregnanolone, a neuroactive steroid. It enhances GABA-A receptor activity, increasing calming signaling in the brain.

The former regimen was a continuous 60-hour IV infusion in a certified, monitored setting. It was not a take-home medication. Oral zuranolone is a different drug with its own instructions.

In the original studies, improvement could occur during the infusion. Follow-up care remained necessary to assess whether benefit lasted and to manage ongoing depression.

• Confirm current treatment options and availability with your provider.
• For any supervised infusion, follow the facility’s medication, transportation, and monitoring instructions.
• Do not obtain an unverified compounded or online preparation as a substitute for a prescribed treatment.

• Sleepiness or excessive sedation
• Dizziness or flushing
• Loss of consciousness during infusion

Some side effects resolve with time; others may require a change of medication. Discuss persistent or bothersome side effects with your provider.

The former protocol required continuous oxygen monitoring and scheduled checks for sedation. Staff reduced or stopped the infusion if excessive sedation or loss of consciousness occurred.

Postpartum depression still needs follow-up after any brief treatment. Schedule an earlier appointment if your mood gets worse.

For a suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately, even if you feel well. Call 911 for a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.

Discuss all sedatives, sleep apnea or other breathing problems, kidney disease, and pregnancy or breastfeeding with the treating team. Arrange help with infant care during a treatment that impairs alertness.

Review all your medications with your provider, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Have new medications checked before taking them.

Alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives can increase sedation. Antidepressants and other medications were reviewed before the infusion; a treatment team must manage changes.

Keep a written postpartum treatment and follow-up plan.

Arrange practical support for sleep, meals, and infant care. Tell your provider if support is unavailable.

Brexanolone was stored, prepared, and administered by the treatment facility. There is no home dosing or storage regimen in this guide.