Mood changes

Hepatitis C treatment, particularly with peginterferon alfa, can cause depression, mood swings and irritability. These side effects aren't trivial, particularly for people who have a history of mental health problems. Strategies for coping with depression include:

• Anticipating possible mental health side effects before starting treatment and discussing them with your doctor so that you'll know what to do if they occur
• Taking an antidepressant throughout treatment and for a few months after treatment
• Avoiding caffeine if you're feeling anxious or irritable
• Taking regular walks or going to a gym regularly for mild exercise
• Reducing your dose of peginterferon alfa under your doctor's supervision
• Talking to your doctor or a mental health professional immediately if you feel like you might hurt yourself or someone else