Answering the Questions: Depression Related to HCV and Its Treatment

Faculty:

Alfredo Alberti, MD Lucia Gallego, MD Michael R. Kraus, MD, PhD

Vicente Soriano, MD, PhD

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Summarize data regarding risk of depression development and suicidal ideation in HCV-infected patients and those receiving HCV therapy
• Explain practical strategies for diagnosing and managing patients with depression receiving HCV therapy, including management of patients with comorbidities, and the use of a multidisciplinary team
• Describe the available treatments for depression in HCV patients, their dosing schedules, measures of efficacy, and potential adverse effects
• Discuss the balance of optimal treatment duration with HCV therapy and depression management during HCV treatment
• Recount other psychiatric adverse effects during HCV therapy and how they should be screened for, diagnosed, and managed

Topics covered include:

• Table of Contents
• Epidemiology and Mechanisms
• Screening and Identification of Depression
• Prevention of Depression
• Antidepressant Use During HCV Therapy
• Other Strategies for Managing Depression During HCV Therapy
• Suicidal Ideation—Identification and Management
• Other Psychiatric Adverse Effects of Therapy