‍Research Indicates Ketamine Injection Could Cut Postpartum Depression in New Mothers by 75%

"New Study: Single Low-Dose Esketamine Injection After Childbirth Reduces Major Depressive Episodes"

Title: "Global Health Concern: Rising Depression Rates in New Mothers Postpartum"

In a recent study, researchers shed light on the escalating concern of depression among expecting mothers during and post childbirth. This worrisome trend has captured the attention of medical experts worldwide, prompting exploration into innovative treatment strategies.

Among these approaches, a groundbreaking study has surfaced, delving into the potential of psychedelic drugs as a remedy for depressive symptoms in new parents. Collaborative efforts between scientists in China and the United States have yielded promising results, unveiling a novel intervention involving the use of a single low-dose injection of esketamine immediately following childbirth.

The findings suggest a significant reduction in major depressive episodes among mothers who had previously experienced prenatal depression. This breakthrough offers hope for addressing the pressing mental health challenges faced by new mothers globally.

A recent study, featured in last week's edition of the BMJ, highlights the promising role of esketamine in addressing perinatal depression. Derived from ketamine, a well-known anesthetic and depression treatment, esketamine shows potential in mitigating depression symptoms during the perinatal period.

Within the study, researchers examined 361 mothers, with a median age of 32, who had no previous medical record of depression. Among this group, individuals experiencing prenatal depression were identified.

As part of the intervention, these mothers received a single low-dose injection of esketamine immediately following childbirth.

Over the course of approximately two years, a blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted across five hospitals in China. Researchers meticulously analyzed the effects of esketamine on participants with prenatal depressive symptoms.

The study revealed a significant finding: those who received esketamine were approximately 75 percent less likely to undergo major depressive episodes by the 42nd day postpartum compared to their counterparts.

Participants were divided into two cohorts: one group received esketamine, while the other received a placebo injection approximately 40 minutes after delivery.

'Extraordinarily safe, effective and cheap'

Throughout the duration of the study, participants underwent interviews at specific intervals: 18 to 30 hours post-childbirth, on day 7, and again on day 42.

At the conclusion of the 42-day period, results showed a striking discrepancy: a mere 6.7 percent of mothers who received esketamine experienced a major depressive episode, whereas 25.4 percent of those who received placebo injections encountered such episodes.

Although some participants reported transient side effects like dizziness and double vision, these effects dissipated within a day.

Dr. Rupert McShane, an associate professor of psychiatry at Oxford University not affiliated with the study, emphasized the safety and efficacy of a single dose of intravenous esketamine for women vulnerable to postpartum depression. He highlighted the challenge in the UK of securing funding for monitoring to maximize benefits and minimize risks associated with this treatment.

What exactly is postnatal depression?

Postnatal depression, affecting approximately one in 10 women following childbirth, manifests through intense emotions of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion, typically emerging within two to three days postpartum and persisting for months.

Additional symptoms encompass insomnia, reduced appetite, heightened irritability, and challenges in bonding with the newborn. In rare instances, postpartum psychosis, an extreme disorder, may arise.

Current treatment options entail talking therapy or conventional antidepressants; however, these methods often necessitate weeks to yield noticeable effects.

Source: euronews