Faster response on amisulpride 50 mg versus sertraline 50-100 mg in patients with dysthymia or double depression: a randomized, double-blind, parallel group study

Amisulpride (50 mg o.d.) was compared with sertraline (50-100 mg o.d.) for 12 weeks in a double-blind, parallel-group study in 313 outpatients with dy sthymia (DSM-IV episode of major depression). Full response rate [greater t han or equal to 50% decrease in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) tot al score] was higher with amisulpride after 4 weeks (63% versus 50%, P < 0. 02) and 8 weeks (82% versus 69%, P < 0.009). Time to initial improvement ( greater than or equal to 25% decrease in HAMD total score) and to greater t han or equal to 50% HAMD decrease were significantly shorter with amisulpri de (P < 0.0033 and P < 0.0080, respectively). A faster response was also pr esent in the subgroup of patients with pure dysthymia. The improvement in H AMD, Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale and Social and Occupatio nal Assessment Scale total scores, as well as Clinical Global Impression im provement, was significantly greater with amisulpride after 4 weeks. Both d rugs were equally effective at week 12. The tolerability of both drugs was satisfactory. Amisulpride is significantly more effective than sertraline d uring the first weeks of treatment in dysthymia. (C) 2001 Lippincott Willia ms & Wilkins.