Moclobemide (Ro 11-1163), a benzamide derivative, is a MAO-inhibitor which selectively and reversibly inhibits monoamine oxidase type A. Thirty-eight patients with episodic, chronic and atypical depressive disorder (DSM-III) were equally randomized to 6 weeks' treatment with either three daily doses of 100 mg moclobemide or 50 mg clomipramine. Both treatment groups improved with time as assessed weekly by the Hamilton Depression Scale and the Clinician's Overall Assessment of Depression State, and there was no interaction between treatment and time. Anticholinergic complaints, tremor and dizziness occurred more frequently on clomipramine, and they were longer lasting and more severe. Because of its low toxicity, good tolerance, its selectivity and reversibility moclobemide may be a better alternative than the older monoamine oxidase inhibitors.