SSRI History: The Forgotten Drug That Changed Psychiatry
Scientifically Reviewed · Dr. Marwa Abd-Alazim · September 16, 2026
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Zimeldine (also spelled Zimelidine) is an antidepressant drug that was first marketed in Sweden in 1982. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), and was the first drug of this class to be approved for use in the treatment of depression. Zimeldine has been found to be effective in treating depression in adults and adolescents, and is generally well tolerated.
Zimeldine is believed to work by increasing the amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. This action is thought to improve mood and decrease anxiety. Studies have shown that Zimeldine can reduce symptoms of depression in adults and adolescents. Zimeldine is considered to be a safe and effective treatment for depression, with few side effects.
In addition to its use as an antidepressant, Zimeldine has been studied as a treatment for other conditions, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. There is some evidence that Zimeldine may be helpful in reducing symptoms of these conditions. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Zimeldine for these disorders.
Zimeldine is available as an oral tablet or liquid form. It is usually taken once or twice daily, depending on the individual’s needs. Zimeldine should not be stopped abruptly, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms. Patients should talk to their doctor before stopping or starting Zimeldine.
In conclusion, Zimeldine is an effective and generally well-tolerated antidepressant. It is approved for the treatment of depression in adults and adolescents, and may also be useful for the treatment of other conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Further research is needed to determine the full efficacy of Zimeldine for these conditions.
References
Baldwin, D. S., Allgulander, C., Bandelow, B., Hollifield, M., Kasper, S., Stein, D., & WFSBP Taskforce on Treatment Guidelines for Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive and Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (2008). World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) Guidelines for the Biological Treatment of Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive and Posttraumatic Stress Disorders. World Journal of Biological Psychiatry, 9, 248-312. https://doi.org/10.1080/15622970701612011
Hudson, J. I., Pope, H. G., & Keck, P. E. Jr. (1991). Zimelidine: A Review of Its Clinical Efficacy and Safety in the Treatment of Depression. Clinical Neuropharmacology, 14(5), 339-365. https://doi.org/10.1097/00002826-199109000-00003
Rickels, K., & Quitkin, F. M. (1986). Zimelidine and Imipramine in the Treatment of Major Depression. A Double-Blind Clinical Trial. Archives of General Psychiatry, 43(5), 472-477. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.1986.01800050073008
