The efficacy and safety of moclobemide compared to clomipramine in the treatment of panic disorder

Abstract

The primary objectives of this multicenter study were to determine the efficacy and safety of moclobemide, a selective reversible inhibitor of monoamino oxidase A, as drug treatment in DSM-III-R panic disorder with and without agoraphobia. In a comparative double-blind, randomized parallel-group design with fixed-flexible dose moclobemide 450 mg per day was compared to clomipramine 150 mg per day, as that drug was considered standard treatment of panic disorder in Europe. 135 patients were randomized and treated for a period of eight weeks. No other treatment was given. By the end of week 8, 49% of the patients treated with moclobemide and 53% of those treated with clomipramine were seen as treatment responders since they were without panic attacks. 78% of the patients in the moclobemide and 88% in the clomipramine group were considered responders according to clinical global impression of change. No significant differences were found between the two treatments at week 8. Adverse events were observed with significantly higher frequency among patients treated with clomipramine, particularly due to anticholinergic side effects. Close to 20% of those treated with moclobemide experienced headache, dizziness, nausea, insomnia, or dry mouth, but other adverse effects were infrequent. In conclusion, moclobemide in a dose of 450 mg per day seems to be a good drug alternative for treatment of panic disorder with and without agoraphobia.