mirtazapine

[Bwilson23]

After trying pretty much every antidepressant with no success the GP wants me to try low dose mirtazapine (7.5mg) mainly to help me sleep as my lower back pain is getting unbearable. I’m so paranoid of weight gain. She said I could start 3.75mg see how I go apparently at this dose it shouldn’t be an issue. But I’m reading otherwise! I’ve been awake since 3 am and I woke several times.
I am now off to work and I’m struggling


Please any advice is appreciated

Thank you.

 

[SBee]

Morning @Bwilson23
I have been on mirtazapine for about 2 years now and find it very effective for evening out horrific mood swings and has made a real difference in my sleep.
I was prescribed 7.5 mg but found this was too strong for me, so halved the dose ( with my GP's knowledge). This seems a stupid tiny amount but extremely effective for me. I did a little research prior to this as Sertraline was no good for me. Mirtazapine is the only AD I could find that didnt have a negative effect on libido, and any potential other side effects seemed worth the try.

The sleep improved greatly within 2 days for me. I take it about 1\2 hour before bed. Unfortunately, as you know meds can have potential side effects. For me, its weighing up the positives with the negatives. Its very much trial an error as to what works for any of us. It's been a very positive effect for me.
I wish you well

 

[Bwilson23]

Thank you for your reply I’m so glad it’s helped. Can I ask- have you had weight gain z? I’m also looking at 3.75.mg. But found no research on this fur weight gain or mood. Thank you.

 

[SBee]

@Bwilson23 i have gained weight, but only since the chronic fatigue ( from both fibromyalgia and Inflammatory arthritis ) has kicked in badly.
When i was on mirtazapine and my fatigue meant I could still walk\run\exercise freely, my weight/strength did not alter ( other than in a positive way).

To be honest, my mood swings were so severe I would have still taken the AD even if I gained weight with it ( despite history of eating disorders). The mental health side was urgent enough to put as a priority. And the decent sleep helps with the physical and mental health side too. I am on 3.75 for 2 years now.

 

[Jcrc]

Hi @Bwilson23. I am also on a tiny dose of this medication and it definitely helps me sleep. I have not gained weight. I hope it helps you. My tablets are 15mg and I quarter them.

 

[Bwilson23]

Thank you that’s helpful. Has it helped mood and anxiety in that low dose?

Thanks.

 

[Bwilson23]

Thank you that’s helpful. Has it helped mood and anxiety in that low dose?

Thanks.

Thank you that’s helpful. Has it helped mood and anxiety in that low dose?