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Remeron Information

Remeron (Mirtazapine) is an atypical antidepressant that is primarily used in adults to treat major depressive disorder. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by a persistently depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in sleep, appetite, and energy. Remeron is typically prescribed after a trial of psychotherapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Mirtazapine belongs to the class of drugs called tetracyclic antidepressants. Still, it is often more specifically categorized as a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant.

In depression, chemical imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine are thought to contribute to the depression and its symptoms. Unlike selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and some other antidepressants, it doesn't primarily block serotonin or norepinephrine reuptake. Instead, it works by blocking presynaptic alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which increases the release of both norepinephrine and serotonin. It also blocks specific serotonin receptors (5-HT2 and 5-HT3), thereby directing serotonin activity toward 5-HT1 receptors, which are associated with mood improvements. Kindly note that it may take 2–4 weeks before the full antidepressant effects of this medication become noticeable.

Mirtazapine is unique in its action in that it also blocks histamine H1 receptors, causing sedative effects. This explains why mirtazapine can also be used in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders, such as panic attacks and social anxiety disorder. It has also been found helpful in the treatment of fibromyalgia and posttraumatic stress disorder (in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). It may also be used to prevent episodes of chronic tension-type headaches.

Remeron Side Effects

While it is generally safe and well-tolerated by most individuals, mirtazapine can cause a range of side effects, some of which are more common and others that are serious but rare. Some common mild side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, increased appetite, weight gain, nightmares, constipation, and trouble sleeping.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat, and body rash;
• Low Sodium in the blood with symptoms like confusion, seizures, headache;
• Liver problems, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, and pale stools;
• Mania with symptoms like decreased need for sleep, hallucinations, elevated or irritable mood, racing thoughts, aggressive behaviors;
• Muscle breakdown with symptoms like aching or tender muscles, dark "tea-coloured" urine;
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome with symptoms like confusion, reduced consciousness, high fever, or muscle stiffness;
• Pancreatitis with symptoms like abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, nausea, fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, swollen abdomen;
• Serotonin toxicity with symptoms like delirium, agitation, muscle rigidity, movement difficulty;
• Signs of infection such as sore throat, chills, fever, and mouth sores As with many other antidepressants, there is an increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults (under 25), particularly when first starting this medication or when the dose is changed. Therefore, it is essential to monitor individuals taking this medication, particularly children and young adults, for any unusual changes in behavior.

Remeron Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to mirtazapine, other ingredients in Remeron, or other antidepressants. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Blood cell disorders such as anemia or low platelet count;
• Diabetes;
• Eye problems, particularly glaucoma;
• Heart disease;
• High blood cholesterol;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure;
• Seizure disorders;
• Stroke;
• Suicidal thoughts and ideation, including a previous history of suicidal attempts;
• Urinating difficulties

You should avoid engaging in activities that require mental alertness or hazardous tasks until you have determined how this medication affects you, as mirtazapine can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Please stay away from alcohol as it may potentiate the sedative effects and other side effects of this medication. Stopping the medication abruptly can cause side effects, such as dizziness, agitation, and confusion. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before discontinuing the drug. It's recommended that for any patient who is currently receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors, there should be a gap of at least 14 days between discontinuing MAO inhibitor therapy and initiating mirtazapine. This is to prevent the risk of severe adverse effects such as serotonin syndrome. Also, it is imperative to inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal remedies, that you are taking before using Remeron to prevent potential drug interactions.

While there's no good evidence that taking mirtazapine in early pregnancy will affect your baby's development, you should consult your doctor before taking this medication during pregnancy. Also, talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breastfeeding while taking this medication. Mirtazapine is not suitable for use in individuals under 18 as the safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established for children and adolescents under 18 years of age. Caution is advised in older adults who use this medication, as they may be more susceptible to its side effects.

Remeron (Mirtazapine) is available in tablet form for oral use. Swallow the tablets whole with water; do not chew the tablets. You can take it with or without food. Stick to the same time each day, and do not suddenly stop without your doctor's advice, as withdrawal symptoms may occur. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Remeron?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Remeron.