VENLAFAXINE IN DEPRESSED OUTPATIENTS

Venlafaxine is a structurally novel compound with a biochemical and pharmacological profile suggesting antidepressant properties. We report the results of a Phase II, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial assessing the efficacy and safety of venlafaxine in a sample of 93 depressed outpatients. Venlafaxine doses of 25 mg t.i.d., 75 mg t.i.d., and 125 mg t.i.d. were compared to placebo. Patients receiving venlafaxine showed a significantly greater improvement in their mood symptoms compared to those receiving placebo. Venlafaxine was well tolerated and the most common side effect was nausea. There was some evidence to suggest that venlafaxine may have antidepressant activity within the first 2 weeks of treatment.