Citation

Lana-Peixoto MA, Teixeira AL, Haase VG. Arq. Neuropsiquiatr. 2002; 60(3-B): 721-724.

Affiliation

Minas Gerais Center for Investigation of Multiple Sclerosis, Medical School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. lanapma@uol.com.br

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Associacao Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquitria)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12364937

Abstract

Depression and suicide have been reported in association with multiple sclerosis (MS). Some studies show that interferon beta may increase the depression rate. We report a case of depression and suicidal ideation in coincidence with the start of increased doses of interferon beta-1a and their complete reversal following the drug withdrawal. The patient was a 21-year-old man with MS and no past history of affective disorders who was given interferon beta-1a in the dose of 11 microgram three times per week. As a new relapse occurred the dose of interferon beta-1a was increased to 22 microgram three times a week. The patient then observed increased worry, irritability and a sense of discouragement as well as recurring suicidal thoughts. His mood was rapidly restored following interferon beta-1a withdrawal. This case suggests that patients with MS may develop depression and suicidal thoughts when treated with high doses of interferon beta-1a.

Language: en