First experiences in combination therapy using olanzapine with SSRIs (Citalopram, paroxetine) in delusional depression

In an open prospective study, 26 patients with delusional depression (mood- congruent psychotic features: DSM-IV 296.4) were treated over 5 weeks with a combination of SSRI (citalopram, n = 22, or paroxetine, n = 4) and the ne uroleptic olanzapine. The course of therapy was evaluated with the Hamilton depression scale (HAMD). Not only the total HAMD score, but also the subsc ores for affectivity and delusional symptoms decreased significantly. After the end of the 5-week combination therapy, 18 out of 26 patients (69%) cou ld be discharged as responders to outpatient treatment. The course of treat ment was characterized by excellent tolerance. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG. Basel.