| DRUG WATCH |
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| Year : 2011 | Volume
: 43
| Issue : 2 | Page : 210-211 |
IFN-α-2a (Interferon) and ribavirin induced suicidal attempt in a patient of chronic HCV: A rare case report
Deep Inder1, HS Rehan1, Madhur Yadav2, Seema Manak1, Pawan Kumar3
1 Department of Pharmacology, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Associated, Hospitals, New Delhi - 110 001, India
2 Department of Medicine, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Associated, Hospitals, New Delhi - 110 001, India
3 Directorate of Health Services, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, India
Correspondence Address:
Deep Inder
Department of Pharmacology, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Associated, Hospitals, New Delhi - 110 001
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/0253-7613.77375
Interferons (IFNs) are proteins produced by cells, fibroblasts and macrophages, in response to viral invasion, and mediates immune response. IFN-α and ribavirin are the approved treatment for HCV infection, but also carries a risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects, viz. insomnia, irritability, mood changes, and depression.
We present a case report of depression induced by IFN-α and ribavirin, leading to attempted suicide. Following the episode, antidepressant paroxetine (20 mg o.d.) and zolpidem (10 mg h.s) were added with psychotherapy. No significant improvement was observed. Patient was given a drug dechallenge (IFN-α and ribavirin). Dramatic improvement was seen over 1 month. Following rechallenge with combination, patient again experienced depressive symptoms with suicidal ideation. IFN-α and ribavirin were promptly stopped. Naranjo causality assessment scale revealed probable association with IFN-α and ribavirin. The report intends to improve awareness among clinicians to facilitate early diagnosis and intervention of similar cases.
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