Remeron

Remeron - Mirtazipine

Mirtazipine, sold under the brand name of Remeron, is a tetracyclic antidepressant in the same class as maprotiline (Ludiomil). Although the precise mechanism of action of this class of antidepressants is not known, they increase the amount of noradrenaline and serotonin in the brain. Noradrenaline and serotonin are neurotransmitters, chemicals that nerves use to communicate with each other. Remeron also acts as an antihistamine similar to diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Remeron was approved by the FDA in 1996.

Remeron is prescribed primarily for the treatment of depression to treat the symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt; loss of interest in daily activities; changes in appetite; tiredness; sleeping too much; insomnia; and thoughts of death or suicide.. The usual starting dose for Remeron is 15 mg once daily, usually at bed time. It may be taken with or without food. Remeron is taken orally by tablet. Tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F).

Remeron can have certain interactions. Remeron adds to the sedating effects of alcohol and other drugs that can cause sedation such as the benzodiazepine class of anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, Xanax), the narcotic class of pain medications and its derivatives (e.g., Percocet, Vicodin, Dilaudid, Codeine, Darvon), the tricyclic class of antidepressants (e.g., Elavil, Tofranil, Norpramin), certain antihypertensive medications (e.g., Catapres, Inderal), and some antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl; Atarax; Vistaril). Remeron should also not be taken with MAOs.

There are many common side effects associated with Remeron. The most common include sleepiness, dizziness, increase of appetite and weight gain, and increased cholesterol, and dry mouth. Approximately half of the patients who take Remeron develop sleepiness. For this reason, it usually is taken at bedtime. In clinical trials, about 1 in 10 persons had to stop therapy because of this side effect. About 1 in 14 persons develop dizziness, and 1 in 6 develop an increase in appetite. Some persons experience weight gain, sometimes requiring discontinuation of treatment. Remeron may increase blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. One in four persons develops a dry mouth. Nausea and constipation are among other, less common side effects of Remeron. Like other antidepressants, the discontinuation of Remeron should be a slow, deliberate process since the sudden act thereof can result in dangerous side effects.