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CHEMICAL NAME
MIRTAZAPINE.
INDICATIONS
Mirtazapine is used to treat depression.
DIRECTIONS
Take this medication by mouth once daily preferably at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It may take up to two weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Therefore, do not increase your dose or take it more frequently than prescribed. Consult your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: swelling of hands or feet, muscle pain, unusual or severe mental/mood changes. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: back pain, shakiness (tremor), increased urination. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: persistent sore throat or fever, chills, trouble breathing, chest pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, other mental/mood conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder), seizures, heart disease, strokes, high cholesterol, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. Though uncommon, depression can lead to thoughts or attempts of suicide. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any suicidal thoughts, worsening depression, or any other mental/mood changes (including new or worsening anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, rapid speech). Keep all medical appointments so your healthcare professional can monitor your progress closely and adjust/change your medication if needed. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If this medication is used during the last 3 months of pregnancy, infrequently your newborn may develop symptoms including feeding or breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle stiffness, jitteriness, or constant crying. However, do not stop taking this medication unless your doctor directs you to do so. Report any such symptoms to your doctor promptly. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
OVERDOSAGE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose include: disorientation, memory problems, unusually fast heartbeat.
INFORMATION
Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
NOTES
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your
healthcare professional before taking the product.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: cisapride. Certain medications taken with this product could result in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Do not take MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine) for at least 14 days before or after taking this medication. Consult your pharmacist. Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check the label on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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