More physicians are now treating depression caused by alpha-interferons...Intron A, Roferon-A, and Infergen.
Lots of people are now getting interferon for hepatitis. About 20% of them develop depression...a few even become suicidal.
Depression is more likely with high doses...or with therapy that lasts several months or longer. Depression also seems to be more common in patients using the combo therapy, Rebetron.
Physicians used to lower the interferon dose...or discontinue it if the depression was severe.
But now they can often treat the depression with antidepressants and counseling...and continue the interferon.
Ask about mood changes in patients using interferon. Tell them help is available if needed.
NEJM 1999;341:849. NEJM 1999;340:1370. Am J Health-Syst Pharm 1999;56:961. Am J Gastroenterol 1993;88:760.
- Other: Interferon and Depression