HIV/AIDS infection is frequently associated with psychiatric disorders, especially depression. The diagnosis and treatment of depression are essential to improve quality of life in these individuals. This review intends to summarize and discuss the most important results in the literature about the treatment of depression in HIV-infected individuals. The epidemiology, clinical presentation, contribution of depression on HIV infection, pharmacological treatment with antidepressants, testosterone, and psychostimulant drugs, and pharmacological interactions between antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and antiviral medications are discussed. The conclusion drawn from this study is that the treatment of depression in this population is effective, safe and does not promote immunosupression.
HIV; AIDS; Depression; Antidepressive agents
