Mirtazapine (US brand name Remeron®, Remeron SolTab® and generic) is a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA). Here is more information about this medication.
Pharmacodynamic effects (“Mechanism of Action”)
Mirtazapine is classified as a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA)
Blocks alpha-2 autoreceptors (i.e., on norepinephrine neurons) and heteroreceptors (i.e., on serotonin neurons). This leads to increased norepinephrine and serotonin release
Blocks post-synaptic 5HT2 and 5HT3 receptors
FDA-approved indications
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Dosage
Initial: 15 mg/day (starting), 45 mg/day (maximum)
Maintenance: 15 to 45 mg/day
Dosage forms and strengths (USA)
Tablets (Remeron® and generic): 15 mg (scored), 30 mg (scored), 45 mg. Generic also available in 7.5 mg strength.
Orally disintegrating tablets (Remeron SolTab® and generic): 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg
General Instructions: Take once daily, preferably in the evening
Note: I would always specify to the patient that mirtazapine should be taken at bedtime.
Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.
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Antidepressants: Index and Links
References
Prescribing information for mirtazapine (Remeron®)
Prescribing information for mirtazapine orally disintegrating tablets (Remeron SolTab®)
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