Biogen-Sage Therapeutics postpartum depression pill priced at $15,900

Bengaluru: Biogen and Sage Therapeutics' oral pill to treat postpartum depression (PPD) in adults is expected to cost U.S. wholesalers $15,900 for a full 14-day treatment, Sage Therapeutics said on Tuesday.

The drug, Zurzuvae, is expected to be commercially available for adults with PPD in December. The companies had sought U.S. approval for Zurzuvae to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), or clinical depression, and postpartum depression, but the Food and Drug Administration in August approved it only for PPD.

PPD, which affects one in seven mothers following childbirth, severely alters their ability to return to normal functioning and could potentially hurt the mother's relationship with her child.

Jefferies had estimated peak sales of more than $1 billion for the drug if it was approved to treat clinical depression, and $250 million to $500 million for postpartum depression.