Mirtazapine is an antidepressant medication that is used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. While it can be effective for many people, it can also cause side effects, some of which may be significant. Here is an overview of the main side effect of mirtazapine:
What is the main side effect of mirtazapine?
Sedation:
One of the most common side effects of mirtazapine is sedation, or drowsiness. Mirtazapine is known for its sedative properties, and many people take it at night to help them sleep. However, sedation can be a problem for some people, particularly if it causes excessive drowsiness or interferes with daily activities.
Other potential side effects of mirtazapine include:
Increased appetite and weight gain: Mirtazapine can increase appetite and cause weight gain in some people. This is thought to be due to the medication’s effects on certain neurotransmitters, including serotonin and histamine.
Dry mouth: Mirtazapine can cause dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of dental problems.
Dizziness and lightheadedness: Mirtazapine can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, particularly when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
Constipation: Mirtazapine can slow down bowel movements and cause constipation in some people.
Sexual side effects: Mirtazapine can cause sexual side effects, including decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
It is important to note that not everyone who takes mirtazapine will experience these side effects, and some people may experience different or no side effects at all. Anyone experiencing side effects or other concerning symptoms while taking mirtazapine should speak with their healthcare provider.
Related Questions (FAQ)
How Does Bupropion XL Make You Feel?
Bupropion XL often helps people feel more motivated, energetic, and emotionally balanced without the emotional numbness seen with some SSRIs. During the first weeks, mild anxiety, insomnia, or restlessness may appear before mood and focus noticeably improve. Most users report feeling “lighter” and more alert once their body adjusts.
Bottom line: SR and XL work about the same for depression; XL’s once-daily, smoother release often fits busy routines and may reduce peak-related side effects (jitters, nausea, headache).
A 300 mg daily dose of Bupropion XL is generally considered a standard therapeutic amount — not unusually high, but on the upper end of the typical range (150 mg – 450 mg/day). For most patients, it balances strong antidepressant effects with manageable side-effect risk, though it should always be monitored by a doctor.
Doctors may prescribe Lexapro (escitalopram) and Wellbutrin (bupropion) together to treat depression or anxiety more effectively. Lexapro increases serotonin levels, improving mood and calmness, while Wellbutrin boosts dopamine and norepinephrine, enhancing energy and motivation. The combination can balance emotional stability and focus while reducing sexual side effects or fatigue from SSRI therapy.
Yes, Wellbutrin (bupropion) can sometimes be taken with an antipsychotic under close medical supervision. This combination may help manage both depressive and psychotic symptoms by balancing dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin activity. However, it increases the risk of seizures and interactions, so dosage and monitoring must be tailored by a psychiatrist.
Vraylar (cariprazine) and Wellbutrin (bupropion) serve different roles—Vraylar treats bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, while Wellbutrin addresses depression and low motivation. One isn’t “better” than the other; the right choice depends on the condition being treated, side-effect tolerance, and individual response under a doctor’s supervision.
