Mirtazapine
Introduction To Mirtazapine
Mirtazapine is used in the treatment of depression. This medicine works by increasing the level of chemical messengers (serotonin and noradrenaline) in the brain that help calm the brain and relax the nerves, thus treating your depression.
Mirtazapine may be taken with or without food. It is advised to take this medicine at a fixed time each day to maintain a consistent level in the blood. If you miss any doses, take it as soon as you remember. Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. It is important that this medication is not stopped suddenly as it may worsen your symptoms.
Some common side effects of this medicine include dryness in the mouth, increased appetite, and headaches. It even causes dizziness and sleepiness, so do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you. This medicine may cause weight gain; therefore, you should have a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Moreover, it is important to inform your doctor if you develop a sore throat or fever after taking this medicine.
Uses of Mirtazapine
- Treatment of Depression
Benefits of Mirtazapine
Treatment of Depression
Mirtazapine helps in maintaining the balance of certain chemicals in the brain
that affect mood and behavior. This improves your mood, relieves anxiety,
tension, helps you sleep better, and increases your energy levels. Mirtazapine
prevents extreme mood changes and helps you feel less agitated. You may
experience fewer episodes of depression and low mood.
It can take several weeks for Mirtazapine to work and you may still feel low
during this time. It is likely that you will take this medicine for at least
six months but possibly much longer. It needs to be taken regularly to work
effectively. Do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.
Side effects of Mirtazapine
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Nasdep
- Sleepiness
- Dryness in mouth
- Increased appetite
- Headache
- Weight gain
How to use Mirtazapine
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Mirtazapine may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
How Mirtazapine works
Mirtazapine is an antidepressant. It works by increasing the levels of chemical messengers (serotonin and noradrenaline), natural substances in the brain that help maintain mental balance.
Quick tips
- Mirtazapine starts to work more quickly than other antidepressants.
- Avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery as it may decrease alertness.
- Avoid consuming alcohol when taking the Mirtazapine, as it may cause excessive drowsiness and calmness.
- If your doctor asks you to stop Mirtazapine, you should reduce the dose slowly over 4 weeks. You should not discontinue it abruptly.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you develop a sore throat or fever or stomatitis during treatment with Mirtazapine.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Mirtazapine if I’m pregnant?
Mirtazapine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Mirtazapine if I’m breastfeeding?
Mirtazapine is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby. The baby should be monitored for behavioral side effects and adequate growth.
AlcoholUNSAFE
Is drinking alcohol while taking Mirtazapine safe?
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Mirtazapine.
DrivingUNSAFE
Can I drive after taking Mirtazapine?
Mirtazapine may cause side effects which could affect your ability to drive. Mirtazapine can affect your concentration or alertness. This may impair your driving ability.
KidneyCAUTION
Can I take Mirtazapine if I have/had kidney diseases?
Mirtazapine should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Mirtazapine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
LiverCAUTION
Can I take Mirtazapine if I have/had liver diseases?
Mirtazapine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Mirtazapine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Mirtazapine addictive?
No, Mirtazapine is not addictive. Patient should follow the advice of the doctor regarding its use
Q. Is Mirtazapine safe?
Mirtazapine is safe if used at prescribed dose and duration as advised by your doctor
Q. Can I take Mirtazapine forever?
No, patient should take Mirtazapine for the given duration as advised by your doctor
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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