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Mirtazapine is a human anti-depressant drug that is
used as an add-on drug for severe depression. It is particularly useful
for patients with anxiety and sleep disturbance. Mirtazapine has a rapid
onset of activity in comparison to many anti-depressant medications. It
has a dual mechanism of action, being both a noradrenergic and specific-serotonergic
drug (NaSSA). Mirtazapine is primarily metabolized by the liver.
Mirtazapine is used as an appetite stimulant and anti-emetic
in cats. At this time there is very little scientific information available
on this drug in cats, although it is mentioned in the proceedings of a
number of feline veterinary meetings. Anecdotal use includes cats with
chronic renal failure, pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, and other depressed,
older, sick cat situations. Possible advantages for the use of Mirtazapine
over cyproheptadine is the once every three days dosing and the anti-emetic
properties. In human medicine, the notable downside to Mirtazapine is
weight gain. When treating sick, anorectic cats, this might be considered
a positive attribute.
The most common side effects in humans are somnolence,
dry mouth, increased appetite and weight gain.
• No precautions regarding use of Mirtazapine
in cats were found.
• Based on the human literature, Mirtazapine has fewer drug interactions
than many of the other drugs used to treat depression. There is no specific
information available regarding treatment in cats.
• Mirtazapine has a wide margin of safety in humans. No information was found regarding cats. If an overdose is recognized promptly, gut-emptying protocols may be attempted.
Dr.
Barbara Forney is a veterinary practitioner in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
She has a master's degree in animal science from the University of Delaware
and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
in 1982.
She began to develop her interest in client education and medical writing 1997. Recent publications include portions of The Pill Book Guide to Medication for Your Dog and Cat, and most recently Understanding Equine Medications published by the Bloodhorse.
Dr. Forney is an FEI veterinarian and an active member of the AAEP, AVMA, and AMWA.
You can purchase books by Dr. Forney at www.exclusivelyequine.com
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is general in nature and is intended for use as an informational aid. It does
not cover all possible uses, actions, precautions, side effects, or interactions
of the products shown, nor is the information intended as medical advice or
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risks and benefits of using a particular product. You should consult your doctor
about diagnosis and treatment of any health problems. Information and statements
have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration ("FDA"),
nor has the FDA approved the products to diagnose, cure or prevent disease.
Wedgewood compounded veterinary preparations are not intended for use in food and food-producing animals.
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