Sertraline treatment of interferon-alfa-induced depressive disorder.
Interferon alfa therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection is commonly associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms, including depression. These side effects may necessitate reduction or even cessation of interferon alfa, but there is little information regarding the management of this important problem. We report 10 cases of interferon-alfa-induced depressive disorder treated with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor sertraline. All patients obtained rapid symptom relief without the need for reduction or cessation of interferon alfa.
Schramm
T M
TM
Mental Health Centre, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD. schramm@optusnet.com.au
Lawford
B R
BR
Macdonald
G A
GA
Cooksley
W G
WG
D000328:Adult; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007508:Irritable Mood; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D020280:Sertraline / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D016898:Interferon-alpha; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; D020280:Sertraline