Comparing the efficacy of duloxetine and nortriptyline in alleviating the symptoms of functional dyspepsia - a randomized clinical trial.

Aim: To compare the efficacy of Duloxetine and Nortriptyline in alleviating the symptoms of severity, anxiety, depression and quality of life in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD). Material and method: We conducted a single-blinded 3-month trial of Duloxetine 20-30 mg daily in 20 patients and Nortriptyline 25 mg daily in 25 FD patients. The primary outcome measure was the severity of FD symptoms by Gastrointestinal symptoms rating scale. Secondary measures included Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and Nepean Dyspepsia Index. the patients were measured in 3 stages. Results: 45 patients with FD with a mean age of 37.18 ± 10.62 years participated in the study. The severity of symptoms was significantly lower in the Nortriptyline group than in the Duloxetine group after three months ( Conclusion: While both medications demonstrated efficacy, Nortriptyline appeared to be superior in symptom reduction. Duloxetine exhibited more advantages compared to Nortriptyline in addressing anxiety and depression and enhancing the overall quality of life. Also, Duloxetine may have a noteworthy impact, contributing to a 20% reduction in FD symptoms by lowering anxiety levels. Clinical trial registration: https://en.irct.ir/trial/65512.