Research Keyword: postpartum depression

Psilocybin During the Postpartum Period Induces Long-Lasting Adverse Effects in Both Mothers and Offspring

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A new study shows that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound being tested for postpartum depression, may actually cause harm during the breastfeeding period. While the drug helped non-pregnant mice feel less anxious, it made postpartum mothers more anxious and worsened their caregiving behaviors. Even more concerning, baby mice exposed to psilocybin through breast milk developed mood and social problems as adults, suggesting potential lasting risks for human infants.

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New and emerging pharmacologic treatments for MDD

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Major depressive disorder affects millions worldwide and current antidepressants often don’t work well or take weeks to be effective. Researchers have developed exciting new treatments that work through different brain mechanisms and show promise for rapid symptom relief. These include nasal spray ketamine (approved 2019), oral medications like zuranolone (approved 2023), and investigational treatments including psilocybin, which show benefits especially for treatment-resistant cases. While many show great promise, more research is needed on long-term safety and how to make them widely available.

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Psilocybin during the postpartum period induces long-lasting adverse effects in both mothers and offspring

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Researchers tested whether psilocybin could help postpartum depression in mice, but found it actually made things worse for both mothers and their babies. While psilocybin normally reduces depression and anxiety, it had the opposite effect during the postpartum period, making mothers more anxious and disrupting their care of pups. Babies exposed to psilocybin through breastfeeding or direct exposure developed anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure) as adults. These findings suggest that the postpartum period may be a particularly vulnerable time for psychedelic use, and more research is needed before considering these drugs for postpartum depression treatment.

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