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Hooked on Mirtazapine: Addiction to Antidepressants

a person on a couch looks out a window struggling with mirtazapine addiction

Prescription medications continue to become increasingly addictive. More and more people are developing serious addictions with an uptick of doctors prescribing medications to help their patients find relief. Mental health medications like mirtazapine, also known as Remeron, are particularly dangerous. Since many people who end up hooked on mirtazapine have a mental health disorder, treating the addiction can become more complex.

At Northpoint Recovery, we understand the unique challenges of overcoming an addiction to mirtazapine. We offer a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program that includes detox and rehabilitation services. Our caring staff dedicates their time to helping our patients achieve long-term recovery.

What Is Mirtazapine?

Mirtazapine is a medication that doctors primarily use to treat depression. It is also sometimes used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that belongs to a class of medications called tetracyclic antidepressants.

The drug works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, which helps to improve mood and relieve symptoms of depression.

Mirtazapine Side Effects

The most common side effects of mirtazapine include dry mouth, increased appetite, drowsiness, and weight gain.

Other less common side effects include:

  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Confusion
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Increased sweating
  • Nausea
  • Restlessness
  • Seizures
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Allergic reactions
  • Hallucinations
  • Slow or irregular heartbeat
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you experience any of these serious side effects, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Mirtazapine Abuse and Addiction

Despite its potential benefits, mirtazapine can be addictive and lead to abuse, mainly when it is used recreationally. When taken in large doses or combined with other substances, mirtazapine can cause a range of adverse effects, including hallucinations, delusions, and impaired judgment.

Signs of Mirtazapine Abuse

Several signs may indicate someone is abusing mirtazapine, including:

  • Taking the drug in larger doses than prescribed
  • Taking it more often than prescribed
  • Crushing and snorting the pills
  • Running out of medication early
  • Stealing or forging prescriptions
  • Buying the drug from illegal sources
  • Using the drug for non-medical reasons
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
  • Continuing to use the drug despite negative consequences

If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Mirtazapine Withdrawal and Detox

Quitting mirtazapine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, including:

  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Headache
  • Increased sweating
  • Nausea
  • Seizures
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness

Because of the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms, detoxing from mirtazapine under medical supervision is essential. At Northpoint Recovery, our detox program helps patients safely and comfortably withdraw from mirtazapine and other substances.

After completing detox, our patients will begin our rehabilitation program, which includes individual and group therapy, as well as recreational activities and educational classes. Our goal is to help our patients build the skills they need to live a happy and healthy life in recovery.

Breaking the Mirtazapine Addiction Cycle

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mirtazapine addiction, it is important to seek professional help. Addiction is a serious condition that requires treatment by qualified medical and mental health professionals.

There are a number of effective treatments available for mirtazapine addiction, including:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Interpersonal therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Pharmacotherapy

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to mirtazapine, don’t wait to get help. Contact a professional treatment provider today to learn more about your options.

Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Recovery

Don’t continue struggling with an addiction to prescription drugs alone; Northpoint Recovery can help. We offer a comprehensive range of treatment services for prescription drug addiction, including:

  • Detoxification
  • Inpatient treatment
  • Relapse prevention

Don’t wait to get help. Call us today at 888.296.8976 to learn more about our treatment programs.