Long-term treatment of endogenous depression with nortriptyline with control of plasma levels

Abstract

SYSNOPSIS: The study was undertaken in order to clarify the clinical pharmacological basis for a correct design of controlled trials of the prophylactic effect of tricyclic antidepressants. Twenty-two patients, successfully treated with nortriptyline (NT) in hospital for endogenous depression, continued the treatment for up to five months in the outpatient clinic. Plasma levels of NT were checked, and ratings were performed regularly. Depressive relapses, all related to low plasma levels of NT, were seen in three patients. The gas Chromatographic method, described in detail, has proved suitable for clinical routine and the results demonstrate the value of monitoring plasma levels in achieving therapeutic control.