Paroxetine and imipramine in the treatment of depressive patients in psychiatric practice

Abstract
A total of 151 outpatients with endogenous or mixed endogenous and reactive depression were included in a 6‐week double‐blind study, with extension for up to 1 year, in psychiatric practice. The results showed trends in efficacy variables and a statistically significant difference in a benefit‐risk ratio in favour of paroxetine (Seroxat®, Paxil®) compared with imipramine. Efficacy was largely maintained in both groups during long‐term treatment. The frequency and severity of side effects in paroxetine patients declined markedly from short‐term to long‐term treatment, whereas changes in imipramine patients were less pronounced. Significantly more imipramine patients gained weight during long‐term treatment. In conclusion, paroxetine is an effective and well tolerated antidepressant, well suited for outpatients in psychiatric practice.