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What Is Mirtazapine?

Mirtazapine is a prescription antidepressant indicated for major depressive disorder in adults. It is also marketed under the trade name Remeron. Standard oral tablets are available in multiple strengths, including 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg. Mirtazapine is not FDA-approved as a primary treatment for insomnia or for pediatric depression.

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What Is Mirtazapine?

Mirtazapine is a prescription antidepressant indicated for major depressive disorder in adults. It is also marketed under the trade name Remeron. Standard oral tablets are available in multiple strengths, including 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg. Mirtazapine is not FDA-approved as a primary treatment for insomnia or for pediatric depression.

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How Does Mirtazapine Work?

Mirtazapine increases central noradrenergic and serotonergic activity, partly through antagonism of presynaptic alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. It also blocks certain serotonin receptors and histamine H1 receptors. Its histamine-related activity contributes to sedation and increased appetite. The exact mechanism responsible for its antidepressant effects is not fully established.

Who Is Treated With Mirtazapine?

Mirtazapine treats adults with major depressive disorder. Healthcare professionals assess depressive symptoms, suicide risk, other medicines, and possible bipolar disorder before treatment. Mirtazapine is not approved for pediatric patients. It must not be combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or taken within 14 days of their discontinuation.

How Is Mirtazapine Dosed?

The recommended starting dose is 15 mg by mouth once daily, preferably in the evening before sleep. Doses can increase to a maximum of 45 mg daily when clinically indicated. Adjustments should occur at intervals of at least one to two weeks to assess response. Patients with kidney or liver impairment can have reduced clearance. Treatment is gradually tapered when discontinued.

What Serious Risks Are Linked to Mirtazapine?

Mirtazapine carries a boxed warning for increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults taking antidepressants. Other serious risks include agranulocytosis, serotonin syndrome, QT prolongation, severe skin reactions, low sodium, and activation of mania or hypomania. Drowsiness, increased appetite, weight gain, and elevated cholesterol or triglycerides can also occur.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mirtazapine

What condition does mirtazapine treat?

Mirtazapine is FDA-approved for major depressive disorder in adults.

What is the usual starting dose?

The recommended starting dose is 15 mg once daily, preferably in the evening.

What is the maximum recommended daily dose?

The maximum recommended dose is 45 mg once daily.

Can mirtazapine cause weight gain?

Yes. Increased appetite and weight gain are recognized adverse reactions, along with drowsiness.

References

DailyMed - MIRTAZAPINE tablet, film coated. https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=b4b9b66e-87a1-4dbb-9eaf-71221bcb2265. Date Accessed October 14, 2026.

Mirtazapine. LiverTox. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548216/. Date Accessed October 14, 2026.

Mirtazapine. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697009.html. Date Accessed October 14, 2026.

Mirtazapine. PubChem. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Mirtazapine. Date Accessed October 14, 2026.

Mirtazapine. StatPearls. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519059/. Date Accessed October 14, 2026.