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A double-blind multicentre trial comparing mianserin with imipramine
British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Mianserin and imipramine showed similar antidepressant efficacy in patients with depression. However, mianserin had a significantly lower frequency of side-effects and did not cause a drop in blood pressure compared to imipramine.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Depression is a common mental health disorder.
- Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine have been widely used but can have significant side effects.
- Novel antidepressants such as mianserin offer potential alternatives with different side effect profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and safety of mianserin with imipramine in treating depressive in-patients.
- To evaluate the incidence of side effects and changes in blood pressure between the two treatment groups.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-blind study involving 54 depressive in-patients aged 18-45 years.
- Patients received either mianserin (60 mg daily) or imipramine (150 mg daily) for 4 weeks.
- Efficacy was assessed using multiple rating scales, including Hamilton, Beck, Overall, and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, alongside global clinical ratings.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in antidepressant efficacy was found between mianserin and imipramine groups.
- The overall frequency of side effects was significantly lower in the mianserin group compared to the imipramine group.
- Autonomic symptoms and a fall in blood pressure were observed with imipramine but not with mianserin.
Conclusions:
- Mianserin and imipramine demonstrate comparable antidepressant efficacy.
- Mianserin presents a more favorable side effect profile, particularly regarding autonomic symptoms and blood pressure changes, making it a potentially safer alternative for depression treatment.