Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Treatment with interferon therapy for hepatitis can induce depression and/or recurrence of affective illness, which could result in cessation of interferon treatment. This article reviews treatment for interferon-induced depression, including antidepressant drugs that may diminish associated symptoms. DATA SOURCES: English-language literature with no date restrictions on the treatment of interferon-induced depression was reviewed via PubMed and MEDLINE using the key words hepatitis, interferon, hepatitis C, interferon-induced depression, pharmacotherapy of interferon-induced depression, and depression prevention. Fourteen of the most pertinent references are cited. DATA EXTRACTION: Escitalopram is the most prominently noted pharmaceutical prescribed for treating mood symptoms in hepatitis patients with interferon-induced depression. Other antidepressant medicines may have utility as well. RESULTS: Antidepressant drugs can be efficacious in diminishing mood disorders during hepatitis therapies. It remains controversial as to whether antidepressant medications can provide prophylaxis against newly developing interferon-induced depressions in individuals with no past history of a mood disorder. CONCLUSIONS: Antidepressant medicines can be effective at improving mood in patients undergoing interferon treatment for hepatitis.