A sequential double-blind controlled study of moclobemide and diazepam in patients with atypical depression

A double-blind controlled study comparing moclobemide and diazepam in patients with atypical depression was carried out. Statistical comparison of the 14 pairs completing 4 weeks showed that significant reductions in depressive symptomatology as measured by the Hamilton and Carroll depression rating scales occurred in both drug groups, and that diazepam was significantly better than moclobemide. A separate analysis of the 10 pairs completing 8 weeks treatment showed that significant decreases in depression ratings occurred in both drug groups but that by week 8 there was no significant difference between the two drugs for depression scores. Side-effects were minimal, and the most common side-effects emerging for both drugs were sleep disturbance and physical tiredness.