Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: MIRTAZAPINE - ORAL (mer-TAZE-uh-peen)
BRAND NAME(S): Remeron
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: Mirtazapine is used to treat depression.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth once daily preferably at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It may take up to two weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Therefore, do not increase your dose or take it more frequently than prescribed. Consult your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: swelling of hands or feet, muscle pain, unusual or severe mental/mood changes. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: back pain, shakiness (tremor), increased urination. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: persistent sore throat or fever, chills, trouble breathing, chest pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, other mental/mood conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder), seizures, heart disease, strokes, high cholesterol, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. Though uncommon, depression can lead to thoughts or attempts of suicide. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any suicidal thoughts, worsening depression, or any other mental/mood changes (including new or worsening anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, rapid speech). Keep all medical appointments so your healthcare professional can monitor your progress closely and adjust/change your medication if needed. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If this medication is used during the last 3 months of pregnancy, infrequently your newborn may develop symptoms including feeding or breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle stiffness, jitteriness, or constant crying. However, do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor directs you to do so. Report any such symptoms to your doctor promptly. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Depression - Read about depression causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and types, including manic depression (bipolar disorder), postpartum depression and clinical depression.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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