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Mirtazapine

Antidepressant

Brand names:

Remeron®; Remeron SolTab®

Often used for:

Depression, sleep problems

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What is mirtazapine?

Mirtazapine is a tetracyclic antidepressant medicine. It works by changing the activity of certain natural chemicals in the brain to regulate mood.  

This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home.

Brain

May be given as a tablet or dissolvable tablet by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Increased appetite and weight gain
  • High cholesterol 
  • Dizziness
  • Changes in liver function 
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

 

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take mirtazapine will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Watch for changes in your child’s mood or mental health, such as worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, irritability, panic attacks, and trouble sleeping.
  • Seek medical help right away if your child has any suicidal thoughts or actions or signs of self-harm.
  • If your child has been taking this medicine on a regular basis and stops taking it, they may have signs of withdrawal. Do not stop giving this medicine without talking to your health care team. 
  • Do not stop taking this medicine without talking to a health care provider.
  • This medicine can cause weight gain and high cholesterol labs. Your child may need additional visits and labs checks to monitor these conditions.
  • This medicine may make your child drowsy. Do not let your child do anything that could be dangerous, such as drive a car or ride a bike until you see how this medicine affects them.
  • It is important that patients tell the care team if they are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • This medicine may affect interest in sex and the ability to have or keep an erection. Patients should discuss this with their health care team if they have questions or concerns.

Mirtazapine at home:

  • This medicine can be taken with or without food. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.  
  • Oral-disintegrating tablet: Place tablet on the tongue. Allow tablet to melt completely before swallowing. Do not crush or chew.
  • Do not remove medicine from the blister pack until you are ready to take it. 
  • In case of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time. 
  • Store at room temperature protected from light. Store in a dry place.

Learn more about mirtazapine

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2025