Journal of International Psychiatry

【Abstract】 Objective To compare the effect of duloxetine and sertraline in the treatment of senile depression with somatic symptoms. Methods 60 cases of senile depression patients with somatic symptoms were randomly divided into duloxetine group (n=30) and sertraline group (n=30). Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD) and Treatment Emergent Side-Effect Scale (TESS) were used to measure the treatment efficacy and adverse effects. Results The HAMD scores of duloxetine group, such as anxiety, sleep disorders, cognitive impairment were significantly lower than sertraline group (P<0.05). The TESS scores of duloxetine group were significantly lower than sertraline group after treatment for 4 and 6 weeks (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 86.7% in duloxetine group, which was not significantly different from the 80% in sertraline group (P>0.05). The incidence of body discomfort, such as palpitation, weight loss, dry mouth and constipation in duloxetine group was significantly lower than that of sertraline group (P<0.05). Conclusion The efficacy of duloxetine and sertraline in the treatment of senile depression with somatic symptoms is similar, but duloxetine has faster onset, can reduce the side effects and promote the relief of physical symptoms, and is worthy of popularization and application.

【Key words】 duloxetine; sertraline; somatic symptoms; senile depression; side effects