A double-blind clinical trial of nomifensine vs. amitriptyline in depressed patients.

This article describes a controlled clinical trial comparing nomifensine and amitriptyline in endogenously depressed inpatients. It is also the first trial of the ICPP-BLIPS, a computer based clinical trial data documentation system. Using strict methodological criteria, careful quality control and comprehensive and systematic data display and data analysis, we have been able to show clearcut efficacy differences between nomifensine and amitriptyline (favouring the later) and clearcut differences in the profile of side effects between these drugs. Future studies utilizing this methodology are recommended were definitive and documented results of clinical trials are desired.