[Intravenous versus oral treatment of endogenously depressed patients with doxepin--a double-blind study with plasma level determination].

: A double-blind study was conducted involving 45 "therapy-resistant" endogenous depressive inpatients who were treated with Doxepin intravenously or orally. After a period of 3 weeks there was no significant difference in the clinical ratings (HRSD, SDS). In the parenteral treatment group, however there was a statistically significant quicker onset of action (day 3). Compared to oral application higher Doxepin plasma concentrations during day 1 to 6 could be obtained by drip-infusion in spite of lower dosage.