title: [Amitriptyline versus placebo for major depression].
abstract: A recent Cochrane review concluded that amitriptyline is an efficacious antidepressant drug, however associated with a number of side effects. The present paper discusses this finding in relation to studies on effects and side effects of SSRIs and dual-action drugs. It is concluded that there is some evidence for recommending treatment with tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) especially in patients who are hospitalized with severe depression and melancholic features. Further, nortriptylin is preferred due to its more favourable side effects profile.
authors: Psykiatrisk Center København, Afdeling O, Afsnit 6233, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 København Ø. lars.vedel.kessing@regionh.dk
authors: Lars Vedel
authors: LV
authors: Kessing
authors: Jens Drachmand
authors: JD
authors: Bukh
mesh_terms: D000639:Amitriptyline / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000929:Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009661:Nortriptyline / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015990:Placebo Effect; D012196:Review Literature as Topic
chemical_list: D000929:Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic; D000639:Amitriptyline; D009661:Nortriptyline