Drugs
Mirtazapine (marketed as Remeron) Information
5/2007: The issues described below have been addressed in product labeling. |
FDA ALERT [7/2005] – Suicidal Thoughts or Actions in Children and Adults
Patients with depression or other mental illnesses often think about or attempt suicide. Closely watch anyone taking antidepressants, especially early in treatment or when the dose is changed. Patients who become irritable or anxious, or have new or increased thoughts of suicide or other changes in mood or behavior (or their care givers) should contact their healthcare professional right away.
Children
Taking antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts and actions in about 1 out of 50 people 18 years or younger. Although mirtazapine is prescribed for children, FDA has not approved mirtazapine for use in children.
Adults
Several recent scientific publications report the possibility of an increased risk for suicidal behavior in adults who are being treated with antidepressant medications. Even before these reports became available, FDA began a complete review of all available data to determine whether there is an increased risk of suicidal thinking or behavior in adults being treated with antidepressant medications. It is expected that this review will take a year or longer to complete. In the meantime, FDA is highlighting that adults being treated with antidepressant medication, particularly those being treated for depression, should be watched closely for worsening of depression and for increased suicidal thinking or behavior.
This information reflects FDA’s preliminary analysis of data concerning this drug. FDA is considering, but has not reached a final conclusion about, this information. FDA intends to update this sheet when additional information or analyses become available.
- Draft Medication Guide for Antidepressant Drugs [PDF] (5/2/2007)
- Healthcare Professional Information
- Healthcare Professional Sheet [PDF] or [HTML] (updated 7/8/2005)
- Prescribing Information [PDF] (Remeron Label)
Other Information
- Antidepressant Use in Children, Adolescents, and Adults
- Public Health Advisory: Suicidality in Adults Being Treated with Antidepressant Medications
(6/30/2005) - Mirtazapine is marketed under these names:
- Mirtazapine
- Remeron
- Remeron Soltab
- Regulatory History of Mirtazapine from Drugs@FDA
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax, using the contact information at the bottom of this page.
Contact FDA
Regular Mail: Use postage-paid FDA Form 3500
Mail to: MedWatch 5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857