Preventive administration of dexmedetomidine in the early postpartum period significantly reduced the incidence of PPD and postoperative pain, while also improving sleep quality.
Key Points Question Does dexmedetomidine administration in the early postpartum period prevent postpartum depression (PPD) among women with prenatal depression? Findings In this randomized clinical trial of 338 women with prenatal depression, preventive administration of dexmedetomidine in the early postpartum period significantly reduced the incidence of PPD and postoperative pain, while also improving sleep quality. Meaning This study found that preventive administration of dexmedetomidine in the early postpartum period reduced the incidence of PPD.