Double blind study comparing the efficacy of zimelidine and amitriptyline in endogenous depression

Thirty-nine (39) patients entered a double blind study conducted to compare the therapeutic efficacy and safety of Zimelidine and amitriptyline in endogenous depression. Following a 3-5 day washout period, patients were randomly allocated to Zimelidine or amitriptyline for 6 weeks period and were assessed regularly. 63% of Zimelidine and 65% of amitriptyline patients showed significant clinical improvement. Side effects recorded with amitriptyline were predominantly anticholinergic and headaches with Zimelidine. It is concluded that while Zimelidine and amitriptyline show equally efficacous antidepressant properties, zimelidine may offer a slight therapeutic advantage due to lack of anticholinergic side-effects.