A comparative study of maprotiline (Ludiomil) and viloxazine in the management of depressed patients in general practice.

A double-blind, comparative, multicentre study comparing the efficacy and tolerability of maprotiline (Ludiomil) and viloxazine as antidepressants in general practice usage is described. Progress was measured at weekly intervals over the 4-week trial duration using a modified Hamilton Rating Scale and patient self-assessment visual analogue scales. A total of 127 patients were randomized into two groups; 63 patients being allocated maprotiline and 64 patients being allocated viloxazine. Of the patients receiving maprotiline, 12 withdrew during the course of the study compared to 9 patients receiving viloxazine. Maprotiline appeared to be superior to viloxazine on the sleep and sadness scales and some evidence to show it to be better also on the tension scale. Whilst the trend favoured maprotiline, the two drugs did not appear to be significantly different on either the doctors' or the patients' assessments. There was little to choose between the drugs in terms of side-effects or ultimate patient tolerability and preference.