The Antidepressant Drugs

Abstract
EIGHT years ago the introduction of iproniazid (Marsilid) and imipramine (Tofranil) opened a new era in the treatment of depression and a new area of psychiatric controversy. Many other antidepressants have since appeared, but, despite numerous investigations, opinions on the most appropriate therapy for depression continue to differ. It seems appropriate, therefore, to examine the present situation in the light of recent research findings. This article reviews the epidemiology of depressive states and outlines the development of the antidepressant drugs as an introduction to a discussion of some problems encountered in their evaluation. Finally, it suggests a treatment program for . . .