Summary

A double-blind crossover trial was carried out in general practice to compare the effectiveness of flupenthixol and placebo in 43 patients with mild to moderate anxiety I depression states. Patients received either 0.5 mg flupenthixol or identical placebo tablets 2 to 4-times daily for 2 weeks and were then crossed over to the alternative preparation for a further 2 weeks. A simple 5-point rating scale was used to assess patients⁷ symptoms at first visit and at subsequent follow-up. Even though there was a high placebo response, the results showed flupenthixol to be significantly more effective than placebo in relieving symptoms. Few side-effects were reported and were mild in nature.