A double-blind, multi-centre trial comparing the efficacy and side-effects of mianserin and clomipramine in depressed in-patients and out-patients

SummaryA double-blind, randomized trial was carried out to compare 60 mg mianserin daily with 150 mg clomipramine daily in the treatment of 145 depressed in-patients and out-patients in 4 centres. The results showed that both drugs were effective antidepressants. No significant differences in efficacy could be demonstrated by means of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, the Beck Self-Rating Inventory or the Clinical Global Impressions for either the in-patients or out-patients. Hypotension, dry mouth and tremor increased significantly more in in-patients with clomipramine than with mianserin. At the end of treatment, weight gain was increased significantly more in out-patients after treatment with mianserin. No differences could be demonstrated between the drugs for other side-effects.