Related Experiment Videos
Prophylactic effect of mianserin on recurrent depression
A Kishimoto1, R Mizukawa, F Matsuzaki
1Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Mianserin effectively prevents recurrent depression. This study found mianserin significantly reduced depressive episodes and their duration compared to placebo, with comparable safety.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Recurrent depression poses a significant challenge in mental healthcare.
- Identifying effective prophylactic treatments is crucial for long-term patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prophylactic efficacy of mianserin in patients with a history of recurrent depression.
- To compare the recurrence rate and episode frequency of mianserin versus placebo.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 9 patients treated with mianserin (20-60 mg daily) and 13 patients receiving placebo.
- Patients selected had experienced more than two depressive episodes in the two years prior to the study.
- Data collected over an 18-month period included recurrence rates and episode duration.
Main Results:
- A significantly lower recurrence ratio was observed in the mianserin group compared to placebo throughout the study.
- The frequency of depressive episode recurrence and total episode duration were significantly reduced with mianserin treatment.
- No significant differences in treatment safety were noted between the mianserin and placebo groups.
Conclusions:
- Mianserin demonstrates significant effectiveness in preventing recurrent depressive episodes.
- The findings support mianserin as a viable prophylactic option for individuals prone to recurrent depression.
- Further research may explore optimal dosing and long-term outcomes.