Fluoxetine, amitriptyline and the electroencephalogram

Electroencephalograms recorded before and after 4 weeks treatment of depressed patients with fluoxetine or amitriptyline were assessed visually and by power spectrum analysis blind to patient, treatment and whether the recordings were carried out before or after treatment. No significant between-group differences in alpha, beta or theta activity were found on visual assessment. Power spectrum analysis revealed a significant decrease in the amount of beta activity at week 4. There was no EEG evidence of drowsiness or epileptiform activity in either of the treatment groups.