An evaluation of alprazolam in the treatment of reactive or neurotic (secondary) depression

To investigate the effectiveness of a new benzodiazepine, alprazolam, and to compare this with amitriptyline (AMT) and with placebo, a trial was undertaken in 65 patients in whom depression was considered to be the dominating feature but not considered to be the primary cause of their condition; it was designed to exclude endogenous depressions. A consistent pattern was found favouring alprazolam over AMT both in rate of response and in total response, as well as significant differences in favour of both alprazolam and AMT over placebo. A comparison of side effects showed a definite trend in favour of alprazolam and placebo over AMT.