Mirtazapine Therapeutic Guidelines: Dosage Forms, Strengths, Methods of Administration, and Additional Details
Mirtazapine, an oral tablet, is a commonly prescribed antidepressant used to treat clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, in adults. It is available in four strengths: 7.5 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg.
One of the key features of mirtazapine is its sleep-inducing properties. It is recommended to take the medication before going to sleep due to its side effect of sleepiness. However, it's important to note that mirtazapine is not approved for treating sleep problems or anxiety, although doctors may prescribe it off-label for these uses.
Mirtazapine oral tablets come with a "score", a line down the middle of the tablet, which makes it easy to split the tablets in half. This can be useful for adjusting dosages as prescribed by your doctor. However, crushing, splitting, or chewing the tablets is not recommended.
The typical mirtazapine dosage for adults with depression is 15 to 45 mg, taken once daily before sleep. A starting dosage of 15 mg is usually prescribed for at least 1 to 2 weeks to see how it works for symptoms before considering a dose increase. If the initial dosage isn't effective, the dosage can be increased to 30 mg. The maximum dosage for depression is 45 mg.
It's crucial to follow your doctor's prescription carefully. Taking more mirtazapine than prescribed can lead to harmful effects. If you suspect an overdose, call your doctor right away. Symptoms of an overdose can include drowsiness, feeling disoriented, unusual heart rate, and memory problems.
When stopping treatment with mirtazapine, it's important to talk with your doctor first. Stopping the medication can cause withdrawal symptoms, especially if you suddenly stop treatment. Mirtazapine stays in the body for about 20 to 40 hours, making it take about 5 days for medication levels to become steady in the body.
Older adults or those with kidney or liver problems may require a lower starting dose of mirtazapine. The maximum recommended dose for children and adolescents is generally not firmly established, but clinical practice suggests careful use with lower starting doses and cautious titration, often not exceeding 30 mg daily in pediatric populations.
Remember, this article is intended to provide a general understanding of mirtazapine. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance. If you have difficulty swallowing mirtazapine oral tablets, let your doctor know. They may recommend switching to the oral disintegrating tablet, which dissolves on your tongue. Mirtazapine is usually a long-term treatment, so it's important to maintain open communication with your doctor about your treatment progress.
