Zurzuvae vs. SSRIs
Zurzuvae and SSRIs can both be used to help treat PPD. Here are some of their key differences.
Side Effects
Women on Zurzuvae have seen symptoms improve as early as about three days into the 14-day course.
The main side effects reported by trial participants were dizziness and sleepiness. Women who participated in the trial were told not to drive for at least 12 hours after taking the drug.
Side effects of SSRIs, on the other hand, include upset stomach, headaches, trouble sleeping, sexual problems, and appetite changes.
Safety, Including During Breastfeeding
SSRIs have a much longer history of use than Zurzuvae, including more extensive safety data on their use during breastfeeding.
SSRIs are not controlled substances, but Zurzuvae is a schedule 4 controlled substance, meaning it carries a potential for misuse or dependence.
It also may cause fetal harm, so it’s advised to use contraception during treatment and during the week afterward.
Cost
“Zurzuvae does cost more than SSRIs since it is a newer medication,” Deligiannidis says. Insurance coverage and the manufacturer savings program can substantially affect what an individual pays, but a 14-day dose of Zurzuvae can cost nearly $16,000, according to GoodRX.
“It’s not something that’s going to be readily available to a lot of people,” Gur says.
SSRIs, on the other hand, have wider insurance coverage and generic versions can cost about $15 a month, though the price can change based on drug, dose, pharmacy, and insurance.
Speed
SSRIs can take weeks to work. Unlike Zurzuvae’s 14-day course, SSRIs are generally taken continuously for months, with treatment duration depending on the individual’s symptoms and risk of recurrence.
