A double-blind placebo-controlled comparison of moclobemide and amitriptyline in the treatment of depression.
The objective of this study was to determine if moclobemide is an effective treatment for depression and if it is well tolerated by patients. A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary ambulatory clinic which treats depression. Fifty-five patients participated. They fit the DSM-III-R criteria for major depressive episode, scored at least 18 on the 17 item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), were between the ages of 18 and 65, and were not suffering from a major medical illness. After a one week washout period, patients were randomly selected to receive placebo, amitriptyline or moclobemide for up to six weeks. Moclobemide is a well-tolerated medication at therapeutic doses; it is globally as effective as amitriptyline in the treatment of major depression.
Bakish
D
D
University of Ottawa, Department of Psychiatry, Royal Ottawa Hospital, Ontario.
Wiens
A
A
Ellis
J
J
Alda
M
M
Lapierre
Y
Y
D000328:Adult; D000639:Amitriptyline / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001549:Benzamides / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020912:Moclobemide; D008996:Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
D001549:Benzamides; D008996:Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors; D000639:Amitriptyline; D020912:Moclobemide