CLINICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES OF MARSILID AND THEORETICAL CONSIDERATIONS CONCERNING ITS ANTIDEPRESSANT ACTION

Abstract

Marsilid (iproniazid) is an antidepressant agent and is active in psychogenic depressions, in depressions caused by chronic physical illness, and in so-called psychosomatic disorders. This drug action suggests the possibility of a common pathological denominator in all these conditions. The following 3 stages are typical of Marsilid therapy (a) lessening of tension, depression and accompanying symptoms; (b) well-being, increase of interests and energy; (c) elation, overactivity and shallow affect. This pharmacodynamic process may occur in the treatment or post-treatment period. It was hypothesized : (a) that certain autonomic and affective reactions are the result of a specific action on subcortical centers; (b) that behavioral and affective changes are related to an increased input of sensations. The use of the drug is limited by its toxicity, its widespread action on the brain and by the difficulty of achieving a satisfactory psycho-physiological homeostasis. It was hypothesized that the drug''s value lies in its ability to correct neurohumoral imbalance. Due to this action the effect of Marsilid on depressions and allied conditions is corrective and not symptomatic.