Antidepressants in concomitant chronic back pain and depression: doxepin and desipramine compared
Ward, N.; Bokan, J.A.; Phillips, M.; Benedetti, C.; Butler, S.; Spengler, D.
Journal of Clinical Psychiatry 45(3 Part 2): 54-59
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0160-6689 PMID: 6321455 Document Number: 223350
Doxepin and desipramine at final doses of 188 and 173 mg/day, respectively, were compared in 36 volunteers with major affective or dysthymic disorder and chronic back pain. Both drugs produced significant decreases in depression, with an overall response rate of 70%; no significant difference was seen between groups. Pain ratings also decreased significantly in both groups (overall response rate = 50%); pain severity showed a better response to doxepin than to desipramine. While baseline pain, depression, and anxiety were correlated, treatment changes in these measures did not correlate. CSF beta-endorphin levels did not change with treatment. The usefulness of an antidepressant with anxiolytic properties, such as doxepin, is discussed.