Are SSRIs really more effective for anxious depression?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are well-established first-line agents for Anxiety Disorders. Anxiety is also a frequent manifestation of major depression. Many psychiatrists assume that anxious depression is more responsive to SSRIs than to other antidepressants. The purpose of this literature review was to determine if SSRIs or any other antidepressants are superior. A computerized search was conducted of double-blind, English-language studies comparing antidepressants available in the United States. Databases searched included Medline and PsycINFO. SSRIs were not found to be superior to other antidepressants in the treatment of anxious depression. The above assumption is not supported. Treatment implications are discussed.