Is Mirtazapine known to increase appetite?

Does Mirtazapine Affect Appetite?

Mirtazapine is a medication known to have various side effects, one of which is its impact on appetite. Research and user reviews suggest that mirtazapine can indeed increase appetite in many individuals.

What Causes the Increased Appetite?

One of the primary reasons mirtazapine is associated with increased appetite is its effect on serotonin levels in the brain [1]. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates hunger and satiety. Mirtazapine, by acting as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor, can increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, leading to increased appetite.

How Prevalent is the Side Effect?

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that appetite increase was a common side effect of mirtazapine, reported by approximately 23% of patients taking the medication [2]. However, it's essential to note that not everyone taking mirtazapine will experience increased appetite.

Is There a Difference Between Dosages?

The extent to which mirtazapine increases appetite may be related to the dosage taken. Higher doses of mirtazapine have been associated with a greater increase in appetite, while lower doses may be less likely to cause this side effect [3].

Comparing Mirtazapine to Other Medications

It's worth noting that other antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also increase appetite as a side effect. However, the specific effects of mirtazapine on appetite are distinct from those of other antidepressants [4].

Sources:

[1] - DrugPatentWatch.com
[2] - "Mirtazapine for the Treatment of Depression" (Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology)
[3] - "A Double-Blind Study of Mirtazapine in Comparison to Paroxetine" (Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology)
[4] - "The Effect of Antidepressants on Appetite" (Harvard Mental Health Letter)