A comparison of the efficacy and safety of alprazolam and desipramine in depressed outpatients.

Fifty-two adult depressed outpatients fulfilling Research Diagnostic Criteria for Definite Major Depressive Disorder were enrolled in a double-blind study comparing the antidepressant effects of alprazolam versus desipramine. Twenty-nine patients completed the seven week (one week placebo followed by six weeks of active drug) study. The mean daily dose of alprazolam and desipramine at study termination was 3.34 mg and 192 mg respectively. Based on psychometric ratings of depression (Hamilton Scale) and severity of illness (Clinical Global Impressions) there was no significant difference between alprazolam and desipramine at the end of six weeks of active drug treatment. Both medications were well tolerated with drowsiness being the most common side effect of alprazolam, and insomnia, dry mouth, and constipation, the complaints most associated with desipramine.