A MULTICENTER EVALUATION OF BUPROPION VERSUS PLACEBO IN HOSPITALIZED DEPRESSED-PATIENTS

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 44  (5) , 88-94
Abstract
Bupropion, a new antidepressant with a novel structure and neurochemical profile was compared to placebo in a 3-center evaluation. Depressed inpatients, 48 on bupropion and 27 on placebo, participated for up to 28 days. At dosages of 300-600 mg/day, bupropion was significantly more active than placebo in reducing depressive and anxious symptomology, beginning at the 3-wk evaluation. Bupropion was particularly efficacious in more severely ill and older patients. Symptoms reflecting cognitive disturbance, somatic anxiety and psychomotor retardation were most improved; sleep disturbances showed less marked effects. Appetite and diurnal variation were not markedly influenced. Adverse effects were minimal with no significant cardiovascular or clinical laboratory findings. Three patients developed a skin rash. There was a notable absence of sedative, anticholinergic and cardiovascular-related side effects. Bupropion has demonstrated antidepressant effects and a spectrum of activity that holds promise for a difficult subgroup, i.e., the older depressed patient with retardation and cognitive disturbance.

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