Tolerability and safety aspects of mirtazapine

Hum Psychopharmacol. 2002 Jun:17 Suppl 1:S37-41. doi: 10.1002/hup.388.

Abstract

The tolerability and safety profile of the noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA) mirtazapine reflects its unique pharmacological profile. The 5-HT(2) blocking effect contributes towards its anxiolytic effects and benefits on sleep, as well as preventing the sexual dysfunction that may occur with non-specific stimulation of the serotonin system by drugs such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In addition, 5-HT(3) blockade by mirtazapine helps to prevent nausea and vomiting. Weight gain is the most commonly reported side-effect of mirtazapine, although there is evidence to suggest that this is not a significant problem during long-term treatment. In conclusion, mirtazapine has a good tolerability and safety profile that demonstrates several benefits over other antidepressants.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / adverse effects
  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / pharmacology
  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Antidepressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Antidepressive Agents / pharmacology
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Body Weight / drug effects
  • Depressive Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Mianserin / adverse effects
  • Mianserin / analogs & derivatives*
  • Mianserin / pharmacology
  • Mianserin / therapeutic use*
  • Mirtazapine
  • Serotonin Antagonists / adverse effects
  • Serotonin Antagonists / pharmacology
  • Serotonin Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Sexual Behavior / drug effects
  • Sleep / drug effects

Substances

  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Serotonin Antagonists
  • Mianserin
  • Mirtazapine