Brexanolone

  • Brand Name : Zulresso
  • Drug Class : Antidepressants, Other
  • Medical Author : Divya Jacob, Pharm. D.
  • Medical Reviewer : Sarfaroj Khan, BHMS, PGD Health Operations
  • _eael_post_view_count : 9

What Is Brexanolone and How Does It Work?

Brexanolone is a  prescription medication used for the treatment of postpartum depression. 

  • Brexanolone is available under the following different brand names: Zulresso

What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Brexanolone?

Common side effects of Brexanolone include:

Serious side effects of Brexanolone include:

  • hives,
  • difficulty breathing,
  • swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat,
  • excessive drowsiness,
  • lightheadedness,
  • sudden changes in mood or behavior,
  • new or worsening depression, and
  • thoughts of hurting yourself

Rare side effects of Brexanolone include:

  • none 

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur as a result of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What Are Doses of Brexanolone?

Adult dosage

Intravenous solution: Schedule IV

  • 5mg/mL (100mg/20mL single-dose vial)

Postpartum Depression

Adult dosage

  • Dosing
  • 0-4 hours: Initiate at 30 mcg/kg/hr
  • 4-24 hours: Increase to 60 mcg/kg/hr
  • 24-52 hours: Increase to 90 mcg/kg/hr (if not tolerated, consider reducing to 60 mcg/kg/hr)
  • 52 to 56 hours: Decrease to 60 mcg/kg/hr
  • 56 to 60 hours: Decrease to 30 mcg/kg/hr

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows: 

  • See “Dosages”

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