The benefits & risks of mianserin, which appears to be safer than the older tricyclic antidepressants, is discussed. Claims for the relative safety in overdose of the newer antidepressants are supported by calculations from coroners’ reports in England & Wales. Mianserin appears effective in treating endogenous depression. Its sedative property is useful in treating disturbed sleep. Mianserin has been shown to reduce suicidal thoughts when compared with maprotiline. (27 refs.)