PORT WASHINGTON, Wis.— In early August, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first-ever oral treatment for postpartum depression.
The drug, Zurzuave or Zuranolone, is designed to treat postpartum depression in adults, which is a common disease many women experience after giving birth. The FDA said before this pill, the only specific treatment designed just for postpartum depression was an IV injection given by a doctor.
Port Washington mom, Stephanie Samson, said she was excited to hear about this advancement in care for women. The mom of two girls said she battled postpartum depression after her first child, feeling isolated and alone.
“It was a long struggle, and at the very beginning of it, it felt like there was no end in sight,” Samson said.
Samson said over time she got better and recognized when she needed help. She is now a co-owner of Swaddled Newborn Care, a business that provides support for parents with newborns. She said being in this community of new moms has given her insight into how helpful this new drug may be for moms who are struggling.
“I am super excited for women in the community, women like myself, who have had postpartum depression and anxiety,” Samson said. “Knowing that there might be something out there than can more effectively help immediately."
Postpartum depression is something Sarah Bloomquist helps many moms navigate. She’s the cofounder and executive director of Moms Mental Health Initiative. She said this new drug is progress for women’s healthcare.
“The fact that the FDA is recognizing that this is a disease and it deserves urgent attention makes us very hopeful,” Bloomquist said.
While the drug is brand new, Samson said she feels positive about this new advancement in care for women. She said if she could have had the opportunity for this assistance she would have welcomed it. Her main message to new moms or anyone struggling, is that know that they aren’t alone in this battle.
