Zimeldine versus amitriptyline in endogenous depression. A double-blind study with special reference to effects on...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Endogenous depression is a severe mood disorder.
• Antidepressant efficacy and safety are critical for treatment.

Observation:

• A double-blind study compared zimeldine and amitriptyline in 21 inpatients.
• Treatment duration was 4 weeks.

Findings:

• Zimeldine (225 mg) and amitriptyline (150 mg) demonstrated comparable antidepressive efficacy.
• Amitriptyline showed significant improvement in sleep disturbances (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression).
• Zimeldine group: increased sweating and headache; Amitriptyline group: dry mouth and constipation.
• Zimeldine led to hypersensitivity reactions (drug fever) and elevated liver enzymes in some patients, which were reversible.

Implications:

• Zimeldine offers an alternative antidepressant option but requires monitoring for hypersensitivity and liver enzyme changes.
• Further research is needed to understand the cause of zimeldine's adverse reactions.
• Both medications appear safe regarding body weight changes.