This 2014 review explores the role of allopregnanolone, a neuroactive steroid derived from progesterone, in the pathophysiology of depression and anxiety. Allopregnanolone acts as a potent positive allosteric modulator of GABA_A receptors, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. Reduced levels of allopregnanolone have been associated with major depression, anxiety disorders, premenstrual dysphoric disorder,
