OBJECTIVE: In this study the authors evaluated the efficacy and the
tolerability of sertraline and paroxetine in the treatment of delusional
depression. METHOD: Under double-blind conditions, 46 hospitalized patients
who met the DSM-III-R criteria for major depression with psychotic features
were treated with sertraline or paroxetine for 6 weeks. RESULTS: The
response rates were 75% and 46% for sertraline and paroxetine,
respectively. The dropout rate was substantial (41%) in the paroxetine
group and was attributable to side effects. CONCLUSIONS: Selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors administered alone are useful in the
treatment of delusional depression.
Abstract Teaser