The Basics
What is Brexanolone?
used to treat postpartum depression
Brand names for Brexanolone
Zulresso
How Brexanolone is classified
Hormones, Progesterone Congeners, Antidepressants, Antidepressive Agents
Brexanolone During Pregnancy
Brexanolone pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Brexanolone while pregnant
N/A
Taking Brexanolone While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Brexanolone?
Because of the low amounts of brexanolone in milk and low oral bioavailability, brexanolone would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. If brexanolone is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because of the low amounts of brexanolone in milk and low oral bioavailability, brexanolone would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. If brexanolone is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.
Possible effects of Brexanolone on milk supply
In a study of 12 healthy women given a 60-hour infusion of brexanolone, there were no reports of effects on milk production according to the manufacturer.
Possible alternatives to Brexanolone
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Hoffmann E, Wald J, Colquhoun H. Evaluation of breast milk concentrations following brexanolone iv administration to healthy lactating women. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2019;220:S554. Abstract. DOI: doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2018.11.873
2. Hoffmann E, Wald J, Dray D et al. Brexanolone injection administration to lactating women: Breast milk allopregnanolone levels. Obstet Gynecol. 2019;133 (Suppl 1):115S. Abstract 30J. doi:10.1097/01.AOG.0000558846.15461.70 DOI: doi:10.1097/01.AOG.0000558846.15461.70
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
