Medicine & USMLE

Mirtazapine

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Psych Drugs (New)
  1. Mirtazapine
  2. Vortioxetine
  3. Bupropion
  4. Trazodone
  5. Vilazodone
  6. Buspirone
  7. Buprenorphine
  8. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
  9. Typical Antipsychotics
  10. Naltrexone
  11. Nicotine Replacement Therapies
  12. SSRIs
  13. Varenicline
  14. Naloxone
  15. CNS Stimulants

Summary

Mirtazapine is an atypical antidepressant drug.

It works as an selective alpha-2 antagonist, which increases the release of norepinephrine and serotonin. Mirtazapine also blocks 2 subtypes of serotonin receptors: 5HT-2 and 5HT-3. Additionally, mirtazapine is a H1 receptor antagonist.

Side effects of mirtazapine include weight gain, increased appetite, hyperlipidemia, sedation, and dry mouth.

Key Points

  • Mirtazapine
    • Mechanism
      • Blocks Alpha-2 Receptors
        • Increases release of norepinephrine (NE)
        • Increases release of serotonin (5-HT)  
      • Blocks 5HT2 and 5HT3 Serotonin Receptors
      • Blocks H1 Receptors
    • Clinical Use
      • Treats Depression
        • Atypical antidepressant
    • Side Effects
      • Increased appetite
        • Causes weight gain
        • Used in underweight patients or those with anorexia nervosa
      • Causes Sedation
        • Used in patients with insomnia
      • Increases Serum Cholesterol
      • Causes Dry Mouth