Risk analysis of suicidal ideations and postpartum depression with antenatal alpha methyldopa use

Abstract

Out of the various risk factors for postpartum depression, use of pharmacotherapy during pregnancy is the most poorly understood. The present study aimed to establish risk of postpartum depression and suicidal ideations with antenatal use of alpha methyldopa. Out of the 100 postpartum women assessed, 77.78% of the women who were prescribed alpha methyldopa had significant postpartum depression. There was statistically significant risk of postpartum depression associated with alpha methyldopa (p = 0.026, OR = 6.45). There was no increased suicidal risk with use of alpha methyldopa in these women (p = 1.00).

Keywords: Alpha methyldopa; Postpartum depression; Suicidal ideation.