Pharmacopsychiatry 1997; 30(2): 70-71
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-979485
Short Communication

© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Efficacy of Paroxetine for the Treatment of Depression in the Context of HIV Infection

Barbara Grassi1 , Orsola Gambini1 , G. Garghentini1 , A. Lazzarin2 , S. Scarone1
  • 1Department of Neuropsychiatric Sciences, University of Milan Medical School and IRCCS H.S. Raffaele, Milano, Italy
  • 2Infectious Diseases Department, Centra San Luigi, University of Milan Medical School and IRCCS H.S. Raffaele, Milano, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
20 April 2007 (online)

Abstract

Recent studies in the literature point out that HIV-infected subjects are affected by depression with a relatively high frequency. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of paroxetine for the treatment of depression in the context of HIV infection. 15 HIV-infected subjects (10 patients with a major depressive episode and 5 patients with an adjustment disorder with depressed mood, according to the DSM IV diagnostic criteria) were administered paroxetine at a daily dosage of 20 mg. Depressive symptomatology was monitored by means of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) at the time of enrollment and 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks later; at the same times adverse effects were recorded. 14 patients completed the study, and all of these recovered from depression; HAM-D mean scores significantly improved from baseline to final assessment, both when all subjects were considered (ANOVA for repeated measurements: p < 0.0001) and when only patients with a major depressive episode were included in the statistical analysis (ANOVA for repeated measurements: p < 0.0001). No significant adverse effects were recorded. Because of its efficacy and good tolerability paroxetine seems to be suitable for the treatment of depression in the context of HIV infection.

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