Mirtazapine (Remeron): A Second-Generation Antidepressant Explained

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I often prescribe mirtazapine, an antidepressant that works a bit differently than the more commonly known SSRIs and SNRIs. In this video, I’ll explain how mirtazapine works in the brain, what conditions it’s used for, and what patients should know before starting treatment. Mirtazapine is FDA-approved for major depressive disorder, but it’s also widely used off-label in psychiatry because of its unique profile. Patients struggling with insomnia, anxiety, poor appetite, or weight loss may particularly benefit, since mirtazapine can improve sleep quality and appetite while lifting mood. We’ll cover: Mechanism of action (noradrenergic and specific serotonergic effects) Dosing and timing (why it’s often taken at night) Common side effects (including sedation and weight gain) Who may benefit most from mirtazapine compared to other antidepressants By the end of this video, you’ll have a solid understanding of why mirtazapine can be such a valuable tool in treating depression and related conditions. 🔔 Subscribe for more psychiatry-focused content on antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and the latest in psychopharmacology.