Modafinil's use in combating interferon-induced fatigue

Dig Dis Sci. 2007 Apr;52(4):893-6. doi: 10.1007/s10620-006-9519-0. Epub 2007 Feb 21.

Abstract

Interferon (IFN) is an effective agent in the treatment of chronic viral hepatitis C. A variety of adverse neuropsychiatric effects including anxiety, depression, delirium, psychoses, and mania complicates its usage. IFN-alpha-induced depression is presumed to be composed of two overlapping syndromes: a depression-specific syndrome characterized by depressed mood, anxiety, and cognitive complaints, and a neurovegetative syndrome consisting of fatigue, anorexia, somatic pain complaints, and psychomotor retardation [1]. Our results show that depression-specific symptoms peak at 12 weeks of IFN therapy and respond well to serotoninergic antidepressants [2]. We conclude that neurovegetative symptoms are relatively treatment refractory to antidepressants, occur early in the course of treatment, and tend to persist for the duration of therapy [1].

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antiviral Agents / adverse effects*
  • Benzhydryl Compounds / therapeutic use*
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use*
  • Depression / chemically induced
  • Depression / drug therapy
  • Fatigue / etiology*
  • Female
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Interferons / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Modafinil

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Benzhydryl Compounds
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Interferons
  • Modafinil