Brexanolone is a CNS depressant. Anything else that makes you drowsy can increase the risk of excessive sedation, breathing problems, or loss of consciousness.
With: Alcohol
Risk: Additive CNS depression, greatly increased risk of excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and loss of consciousness.
Action: Avoid alcohol before, during, and immediately after the brexanolone infusion.
With: Opioids (e.g., morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl)
Risk: Increased risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, and overdose.
Action: Use only if absolutely necessary, at the lowest effective dose, with close monitoring. Coordinate pain management with the brexanolone team.
With: Benzodiazepines and Other Sedatives (e.g., lorazepam, zolpidem, eszopiclone, barbiturates)
Risk: Major additive sedative effects, higher risk of loss of consciousness and breathing problems.
Action: Avoid or minimize doses; if required, monitor extremely closely in a controlled setting.
With: Sedating Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, Antihistamines, and Sleep Medications
Risk: Extra drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
Action: Review all medications before infusion; reduce or hold other sedatives when possible during treatment.
With: MAOIs and Certain Other Antidepressants
Risk: Increased CNS depression; complex interactions requiring specialist judgment.
Action: Psychiatric and perinatal mental health specialists should coordinate therapy and monitoring.
With: Strong CNS Depressants or Substances of Misuse (e.g., kratom, kava, GHB/oxybate)
Risk: Potentially dangerous, unpredictable sedation and respiratory depression.
Action: Avoid. Disclose all substances, including herbal and recreational, to your treatment team.