Maprotiline (Ludiomil) in depression: a multicentre assessment of onset of action, efficacy and tolerability.

Although open studies have a built-in bias of optimism the results from this study, made valid by the large numbers of patients involved, support the findings reported with smaller numbers in controlled series of studies showing an early onset of action with maprotiline (Ludiomil). The method used in this study to detect unwanted effects indicates that maprotiline is well tolerated. In summary, the efficacy of once daily dosage, the good response in differing types of depressive illness, the early onset of effectiveness without serious side-effects in a wide age range of patients suggests that this drug will be a useful addition for the treatment of depressive illness in general practice.