Effects of Antidepressant Treatment on Fatigue in MS Patients with Depression and Fatigue

OBJECTIVE: Fatigue and depression are frequently
observed symptoms in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Fatigue has been
reported as the major symptom in 53-90% of MS patients. Lifetime
incidence of depression has been found as 50% in MS cases.
METHODS: There are several studies reporting a positive correlation
between depression and fatigue in MS. It has been reported that
depression increases the severity of fatigue in these patients. The
objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of antidepressant
treatment in MS patients having depression and fatigue.
RESULTS: 36 cases with definite relapsing-remitting MS
(RRMS) who had been free of attacks and steroids for six months were
included in this study. Patients, whose examination revealed depression
and fatigue, were diagnosed with depression by a psychiatrist. Cases
were administered antidepressants and followed by 6 months. The
efficacy of the treatment was calculated by Hamilton Depression Rating
The decrease in depression and fatigue scores at the end of
3rd and 6th months were found to be statistically significant. (p<0.05).
The effects of treatment on fatigue and depression were not correlated
(p>0.05).
CONCLUSION: A partial improvement can be obtained in fatigue by
antidepressant treatment.