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Mirtazapine

Mirtazapine is a tetracyclic antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. It is taken by mouth as a tablet and alters the signalling of norepinephrine and serotonin in the central nervous system. A response is usually seen within one to two weeks, and treatment is often continued for an indefinite period under medical review.

Medicine containing Mirtazapine

Mirtazapine

Major Depressive Disorder

7.5 · 15 · 30mg

Mirtazapine is a tablet, with the price shown per tablet, in several strengths and pack sizes. It is taken at night for major depressive disorder.

FromUS$0.56/ tabletView

Key points

  • Mirtazapine belongs to the tetracyclic antidepressant group and comes as a tablet in 7.5 mg, 15 mg and 30 mg strengths.
  • It blocks presynaptic alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which raises the release of norepinephrine and serotonin.
  • The medicine is not recommended for children or adolescents under 18 years.

What mirtazapine is used for

Mirtazapine is used for major depressive disorder in adults. Depression can affect sleep, appetite, energy and concentration, and medicine is one part of a wider plan that may also include talking therapy. Major depressive disorder is the condition it is intended for, and a doctor decides whether it suits a particular person.

How it works

The drug acts as an antagonist at presynaptic alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. Blocking these receptors increases the release of norepinephrine and serotonin, which helps regulate mood and restore emotional balance. Effects build gradually over one to two weeks rather than arriving immediately.

Forms and brands available

Mirtazapine is supplied as a tablet in three strengths: Mirtazapine 7.5 mg, 15 mg and 30 mg tablets. Orders are prepared by pharmacy partners in India and shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety

Mirtazapine should not be taken by anyone with a hypersensitivity to it, or by anyone using a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. Alcohol, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and benzodiazepines can interact with it, so a doctor needs a full list of everything being taken, including supplements.

Drowsiness, sedation, dry mouth, increased appetite and weight gain are common, particularly early on. Dizziness, lethargy, oedema and arthralgia can also occur. Serotonin syndrome, severe neutropenia and convulsions are serious effects that require immediate medical attention.

Mood and behaviour should be watched during treatment, and any worsening reported to the doctor. Use in pregnancy is only for cases where it is clearly necessary after medical consultation, and breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor because transfer into breast milk is possible.

What the sources say

  • Short-term studies found that antidepressants raised the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours in children and young adult patients. (DailyMed)
  • Where sore throat, fever, stomatitis or other signs of infection appear together with a low white blood cell count, treatment should be stopped and the patient monitored closely. (DailyMed)
  • Drowsiness may impair judgment, thinking and motor skills. (DailyMed)

Further reading

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