Depression in HIV-infected patients: allopathic, complementary, and alternative treatments

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this review article is to synthesize the current knowledge related to depression and HIV disease.

Methods: The research literature was critically evaluated for several selected therapies that are prescribed for HIV-infected persons to treat depression. These therapies included pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, alternative, and complementary therapies.

Results: Several therapies are currently available for the treatment of depression in HIV disease. When prescribing treatments, clinicians should be aware of problems associated with diagnoses, drug-drug interactions, and the benefits of some of the new therapies that are now available. Treatment regimes should be carefully designed to meet the individual needs of the patient and will optimally include a combination of approaches including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, education, and/or complementary therapies.

Conclusions: Although HIV is now a treatable disease, the prevalence of depression in the HIV population remains high and should be continually addressed.