The use of Dexmedetomidine infusion notably reduces postpartum depression (PPD) among women within one week and over one week postpartum, a study in the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology mentioned.

This study by Shouyu Xu et al. is based on the data gathered from 13 trials involving 1711 women who underwent C-sections. Those who received Dexmedetomidine exhibited significantly lower scores on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) within a week and more than 1 week postpartum compared to the control group. Age plays a significant part in the heterogeneity of the EPDS scores.

Intriguingly, younger mothers, particularly those under 30 years old, experienced greater benefits from Dexmedetomidine in alleviating PPD symptoms. Furthermore, the method of Dexmedetomidine administration played a pivotal role; continuous infusion via patient-controlled intravenous analgesia showcased superior efficacy over single or combined infusion methods. Additionally, a lower total infusion dose of Dexmedetomidine (less than equal to 2 μg per kg) was linked with superior anti-PPD effects.

Women reported improved pain relief, better sleep quality, appropriate sedation levels, and a lowered occurrence of adverse effects (nausea, vomiting and chills) with the use of Dexmedetomidine. Shouyu Xu underscores the need for further high-quality, large-scale randomized trials to validate these findings and refine optimal administration protocols.