Examination of a possible interaction between prednisone and newer antidepressants

Corticosteroids are associated with mood changes. Minimal data are available on the interaction of corticosteroids with newer antidepressants (e.g. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs]) when they are used in combination. Data from two previously published studies in which participants received antidepressants along with prednisone were examined to investigate the interaction between the antidepressants and prednisone when used in combination, and the effect of their combined use on mood symptoms. In one study, depressed asthma patients were given citalopram or placebo with some concurrently receiving prednisone for asthma symptoms. In another study, asthma patients received prednisone bursts with some concurrently treated with newer antidepressants. No evidence of induction of manic symptoms or worsening of depressive symptoms, compared to controls, was found when newer antidepressants were added to prednisone or when prednisone was added to newer antidepressants.