Hepatitis C

Question 1

Which Hep C treatment can cause depression?

Answer 1

Interferon

Question 2

Can Hep C be treated with ribavirin alone?

Answer 2

No

Question 3

How would you manage interferon-related depression?

Answer 3

Start on an SSRI
Liaise with specialist: consider pausing or slowing down treatment for a few weeks until antidepressant kicks in if significant risks (stopping treatment is the last resort and not encouraged)
Psychoeducation and CBT
Increasing social supports

Question 4

Patient with Hep C on interferon develops depression. What risks must you assess?

Answer 4

Relapse of drug use

Suicidal ideation/plans

Question 5

What % of patients on interferon develop depression?

Answer 5

30-70%

Question 6

What % of people with interferon-induced depression respond to an antidepressant?

Answer 6

80%

Question 7

What neurochemical imbalance is thought to contribute to interferon-induced depression?

Answer 7

Low serotonin and noradrenaline