A review of controlled studies with nomifensine, performed outside the UK.

1. Double-blind controlled comparisons of nomifensine with placebo, imipramine, desipramine, viloxazine, nortriptyline, a combination of amitriptyline and chlordiazepoxide, and diazepam have been carried out in various parts of the world. 2. Dosage ranged from 50-225 mg daily, and treatment lasted from 2-26 weeks. 3. Nomifensine was shown to possess useful antidepressive activity, to counteract inhibition, to restore drive and to relieve anxiety. 4. Adverse reactions were uncommon, particularly anticholinergic effects, and nomifensine was not shown to cause sedation or to interact with alcohol. No withdrawal phenomena were observed after 6 months' treatment. 5. Nomifensine is not suitable for severely agitated patients.