Comparison of limbitrol (chlordiazepoxide/amitriptyline) and amitriptyline alone as a single night-time dose for the treatment of depression with anxiety

Abstract

Four hundred and thirty-four patients suffering from mild to moderate depression were recruited into a double-blind multicentre general practice study and randomly received either Limbitrol (25 mg amitriptyline and 10 mg chlordiazepoxide) or amitriptyline 25 mg in matching white capsules given as a single night-time dose. The dose was titrated to a maximum of four capsules per night. Patients were assessed on entry and at 7-day intervals for depressive state (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression), cardiovascular effect and side-effects for 28 days. Self-assessments of depression and anxiety using the Leeds Scale were made in the form of a patient questionnaire. Both groups showed significant improvement at each visit and significantly more patients improved after 7 days in the Limbitrol group. There was no significant difference in treatment over all between groups, in the incidence of side-effects, or in the effects on the heart.