Prevention of Postpartum Depression: A Pilot Placebo-controlled Trial of Trazodone
Status:
Not yet recruiting
Trial end date:
2024-03-31
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Postpartum depression is a serious illness that affects approximately 17% of women who have
recently given birth. Untreated depression appears to have negative effects for both the
mother and her baby. Postpartum depression is quite common among women with a history of
depression. Sleeplessness is a common concern during pregnancy and after delivery, and it can
also trigger depression in women with a history of depression. Antidepressants are the most
commonly recommended drugs for prevention of postpartum depression; however, there is limited
research to understand the effectiveness of the medications in preventing postpartum
depression. Trazodone is a weak antidepressant, but it is commonly prescribed for
sleeplessness due to physical or psychiatric disorders. We are planning a study to find out
whether trazodone in a low dose is more effective than a sugar pill in preventing postpartum
depression among women with histories of depression. We expect the results of our study will
make it easier for healthcare providers to select the right medication for women who are at
risk of developing depression after delivery and thus improve the mental health of mothers
and well-being of their babies.