Zimeldine versus Nomifensine

Abstract

A double-blind comparison of zimeldine, a selective 5-HT [serotonin] reuptake inhibitor, and nomifensine, a noradrenaline [norepinephrine] and a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, was carried out in 43 inpatients with a scheduled treatment period of 6 wk. All patients were diagnosed as definite major depressive disorder according to Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) and the WHO International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9). The antidepressive efficacy was evaluated by a 10-item subscale of the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS), a clinical global impression (CGI) scale and a self-rating scale (VAMS N.A). Side effects were recorded and anticholinergic effect was evaluated by parotid saliva volume measurement. No statistically significant differences in efficacy or profile between the 2 drugs were demonstrable. With the exception of increased sweating in the zimeldine group there were no statistically significant differences in side effects.