Brexanolone [C-IV; synthetic allopregnanolone]

Brand Name

Zulresso5662

Pharmacological Class

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor-positive modulator

Use

Postpartum depression$

Agents with Similar Pharmacology

Alcohol, anesthetics (desflurane, etomidate, isoflurane, Methohexital, propofol, sevoflurane), barbiturates, benzodiazepines, Z-compounds (eszopiclone, zaleplon, zolpidem)

Further Reading in Goodman & Gilman
Additional Notes

Brexanolone is administered as a single 60-hour infusion, under continuous monitoring, in a controlled healthcare environment.56 Due to an association with excessive sedation and sudden loss of consciousness during administration, it is only available through the ZULRESSO REMS restricted access program which requires enrollment of healthcare facilities, pharmacies, patients, and drug wholesalers/distributors.56 Therapy with brexanolone is expected to cost approximately $34,000 per infusion.60